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The 11 Best Sling Bags of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

Our favorite sling bags come in a variety of styles and sizes for any trip type.

zara travel sling bag

In This Article

  • Our Top Picks
  • Others We Liked

Our Testing Process

  • Tips for Buying
  • Why Trust T+L

Travel + Leisure / Alli Waataja

Sling bags have become wildly popular in the last few years, but the crossbody-style bags have always been a staple for traveling. Sling bags typically have a larger capacity than an average purse while still feeling compact and secure since you can easily swing the bags to the front of your body.

Whether you’re in search of the perfect travel bag for flying , hiking, shopping, or for everyday use like running errands, we got our hands on more than 30 sling bags from trusted brands to find the best of the best for anyone’s needs. From outdoorsy bags made with weather-proof materials to chic leather slings to pair with any outfit, we found a variety of top-tier bags that impressed us with a functional design for staying organized and high-quality materials that will last no matter where your travels take you.

Best Overall

The north face isabella sling.

The North Face

The capacity is big enough to fit essential items without feeling bulky.

It has a sportier look.

The North Face’s Isabella Sling is the perfect pack for traveling and everyday use — in fact, we used it a few times each week for six months and were surprised at how well it's held up. The 9-liter capacity is generous enough to fit a tablet, snacks, and a wallet with plenty of room to spare, but it’s still lightweight and compact to carry around. There are various pockets on the interior and exterior for staying organized and we’re big fans of the padded pocket on the strap for safeguarding a phone or sunglasses while out and about. Made out of durable recycled heathered polyester, the sling bag feels thick and well-made, so we didn’t run into any issues with quality during testing. The strap and back panel have ample padding for comfort and the crossbody strap is adjustable to get the perfect fit. It does have a more rugged look, but the functionality and organization make it well worth it whether you’re hiking, running errands, or sightseeing.

The Details: 14.5 x 9.5 x 5.5 inches | 12 ounces | Recycled 300D heathered polyester | 9 liters | Water-resistant

Travel + Leisure / Jodi Espinosa

Best Expandable

Peak design field pouch v2.

Peak Design

It can double in size for versatility.

The strap could be more comfortable.

Sometimes you need more or less space in a bag depending on the intended use, which makes Peak Design’s expandable sling bag incredibly versatile. While it’s designed to store a small camera, it can also hold everyday items like a phone, passport, wallet, and headphones. The sling bag has a 1.5-liter capacity that can easily expand to three liters thanks to the velcro front flap and there are several dividers inside the bag to organize packed items. Weather-proof and sturdy, the nylon canvas material looks as sleek as it is durable with a structured and lightweight build. Our only gripe with the sling bag is that the adjustable crossbody strap doesn’t match the high-quality feel of the bag materials, so we wish it was a different material for aesthetic and comfort purposes. However, the bag also comes with belt loops to wear the pack on standard and photo-specific belts.

The Details: 9.4 x 7.5 x 0.4 inches | 6 ounces | Nylon canvas | 1.5 or 3 liters | Weather-resistant

Travel + Leisure / Dylan Thompson

Cotopaxi 13L Sling Pack

It’s plenty big enough to fit jackets, water bottles, snacks, and tablets.

It might be too big to use as a daily bag.

Cotopaxi’s spacious sling pack is basically a mini backpack with a crossbody strap instead, which makes it perfect for long days away from home when you want some extra storage. The 13-liter capacity makes it easy to pack a variety of items in the pack thanks to the large main compartment for jackets, tablets, or a water bottle, and the several smaller pockets are fit for car keys or phones. Since the sling is made with TPU-coated nylon for water resistance, you can wear it in the rain, snow, or sleet without any fear of the packed items getting wet or damaged. We love that the pack can be worn over the right or left shoulder depending on personal preference and the padding on the back panel and strap provide noticeable comfort no matter where your day takes you. After six months of hiking and bike-riding while wearing the bag, it still looks new and has become a reliable part of our outdoor routine.

The Details: 18 x 10 x 5 inches | 1.1 pounds | Recycled 840D TPU-coated nylon | 13 liters | Weather-resistant

Travel + Leisure / Michael Weisbaum

Best Rugged

Kavu rope bag sling pack.

The adjustable rope strap molds to the body for a flexible and comfortable fit for activities.

The rope can be rough on bare skin.

For outdoorsy trips that include hiking, biking, or an activity out in Mother Nature, we recommend the Kavu Rope Sling. It’s made with a water-resistant polyester material that comes in dozens of outdoor-inspired prints and patterns, which also makes it a good gift option for nature lovers. Besides the unique fabric designs, this bag proved to excel in comfort during testing thanks to the flexible rope crossbody strap that contours to the upper body and balances the weight of the pack. We found the rope strap to be slightly rough on bare skin, so we recommend having a layer of clothing between the strap and the skin for the most comfort. With a 10-liter capacity, the lightweight pack can store everyday essentials like jackets, water bottles, and snacks, and there are various pockets for storing both small and large items.

The Details: 20 x 11 x 5 inches | 12.4 ounces | Polyester | 10 liters | Water-resistant

Travel + Leisure / Kathryn Standing

Best for Water Bottles

Nomatic navigator sling.

It has convenient internal and external water bottle pockets.

After six months of testing, we noticed it can be hard to remove stains from the textured fabric.

Stay hydrated on the go with this sleek and functional Nomatic sling bag that offers not one, but two designated water bottle pockets. The structured design of the 6-liter bag makes it easy to place various items like a tablet or jacket in the bag without losing its shape. The interior has a water bottle sleeve and several zippered pockets, and the exterior features a side slip pocket to conveniently access another bottle or phone without having to reach into the bag. While this is one of the pricier bags we tested, it comes with extra features like a removable stabilizing strap, a RFID-blocking pocket, and a designated tablet sleeve for devices up to 11 inches long. Plus, the sturdy nylon fabric is water resistant, so this pack is fit for running errands or commuting to work in inclement weather.

The Details: 9 x 4 x 3.5 inches | 1.3 pounds | Nylon | 6 liters | Water-resistant

Travel + Leisure / Hang Pham

Best Padding

Osprey daylite sling backpack.

The back panel is lined with a padded spacer mesh material for superior comfort and breathability.

The crossbody strap isn’t fully padded.

During testing, this sporty sling bag impressed us with superior comfort and breathability thanks to the padded and mesh-lined back panel. The bag has an anatomical design to fit comfortably on the back or chest whether the bag is worn over the right or left shoulder, and we were big fans of the convertible option. With a 6-liter capacity, this bag is on the smaller side, but it can still fit everyday essentials like a phone, wallet, keys, and earbuds. The main compartment is spacious and easy to access, and there are just a few pockets to keep your small items organized. While we found this bag to be exceptionally lightweight and comfortable to carry, the crossbody strap is only padded around the shoulder and then it becomes a regular nylon strap that you can adjust for a tighter or looser fit. During our six-month tests, we even spilled coffee on the bag and were able to throw it in the washing machine on a delicate cycle and it cleaned up perfectly.

The Details: 14.17 x 8.66 x 5.12 inches | 8 ounces | Recycled polyester | 6 liters

Travel + Leisure / Kristen Cleveland

Vera Bradley Mini Sling Backpack

It’s the perfect size for storing everyday essentials.

It feels a bit bulky to wear for long periods of time.

For travelers looking for a sling bag that is just as stylish as it is functional, this Vera Bradley one is the best bet. It can easily fit a wallet, phone, book, or other smaller items, and the main compartment is surprisingly spacious with several front pockets to conveniently access credit cards and a phone when you’re in a hurry or multi-tasking. The sling bag is quite a bit smaller than any type of backpack, but we did feel like the bag was a bit bulky to wear as a fanny pack , so it’s most comfortable to wear as a sling bag with the main compartment in the back. Arguably, the best part of any Vera Bradley travel accessory is the bold colors and patterns, so we love the various floral prints or solid color options this sling comes in.

The Details: 13.5 x 7 x 2.5 inches | 8.5 ounces | Recycled polyester | Water-resistant

Travel + Leisure / Jasmine Hyman

Best for Runners

Janji sling bag.

The bag is deceptively slim, but it can stretch to hold items as big as water bottles.

It’s designed for runners, but can be worn for everyday use.

While the Janji Multipass Sling Bag is technically designed for runners, we think it works well for highly active travelers as well. The sleek and slim shape of the bag makes it easy to wear it over the shoulder, across the body, or around the waist for a comfortable and convertible fit. It looks small capacity-wise, but we were thoroughly impressed to see that the bag could hold everyday items like a wallet, phone, and keys, and there’s a bungee cord in the back of the sling to secure a jacket or water bottle while on the go. The durable polyester material is ultra-lightweight and water-resistant, so after six months of use it still looks new. Plus, runners will also appreciate the slim design for light packing and crossbody strap for extra security during strenuous activities.

The Details: 6.5 x 6.25 x 4 inches | 5.8 ounces | Polyester, nylon | 2 liters | Water-resistant

Travel + Leisure / Morgan Ashley Parker

Cluci Sling Bag

The stylish and functional bag is a fraction of the price compared to other bags we tested.

The materials show noticeable wear and tear over time.

In a pinch for a last-minute travel bag? This faux leather sling bag can be shipped quickly with an Amazon Prime membership and it goes with virtually any outfit. We’re big fans of the medium size of the main compartment that can hold a book, wallet, and sunglasses with ease, and we were able to squeeze in lip balm and keys in the smaller interior pockets, too. The material is soft like regular leather and the nylon woven strap doesn’t dig into the skin or cause any discomfort. The bag does show some slight wear and tear on the external material after six months of use, but we still think the value is excellent given the lower price and overall style.

The Details: 15.5 x 6.9 x 2.8 inches | 12 ounces | Vegan leather | Water-resistant

Travel + Leisure / Taylor Fox

Quince Italian Pebbled Leather Sling Bag

The Italian leather material gives the bag a sleek and timeless look.

The leather material is not water resistant.

If you’re in search of a sling bag to complement a brunch-worthy outfit, then Quince’s Italian leather sling bag is the best option. The soft pebbled leather feels high-quality and proved to be scratch-resistant throughout our six months of tests while the cotton lining on the interior protects the bag and the items packed inside. We love that the bag is medium-sized so it can easily fit phones, wallets, earbuds, and passports, and it doesn’t feel cumbersome to carry across the chest or around the waist, The nylon belt can be a bit finicky to adjust due to the metal hardware, but you can adjust it to a range of lengths to wear the bag in different ways. Plus, the chic sling bag comes in three earth-toned colors, including brown, beige, and black.

The Details: 11 x 5.75 x 1.5 inches | 10.9 ounces | Leather, cotton

Travel + Leisure / Elise Wang

Best Organization

Patagonia atom sling bag.

There are tons of pockets and dividers to organize your items neatly.

The asymmetrical design means it can only be worn over the right shoulder.

The intuitive and useful design of Patagonia’s Atom Sling Bag won us over in the organization department since it has the ideal number of pockets for storing items. The various pockets combined with the 8-liter capacity means that everything has a spot without getting lost in a void of empty space. For storing books or a tablet, the main compartment has a fabric divider to keep more fragile items separated, and there is a spacious front zippered pocket for placing grab-and-go items like sunglasses, car keys, or earbuds. Best of all, the small pocket on the strap of the bag is perfect for storing a phone so you can be totally hands-free while traveling. We spilled sunscreen on the bag during our six month tests and were able to clean it off using a small amount of dish soap. One thing to note is that the asymmetrical design of the sling can only be worn over the right shoulder, so if you’re used to wearing a sling bag over the left shoulder, you’ll have to get used to the different (but super comfortable) feel of this bag.

The Details: 13.5 x 9 x 3 inches | 12 ounces | Recycled polyester, nylon | 8 liters | Water-resistant

Travel + Leisure / Jill DeForest Colvig

Other Sling Bags We Liked

We’re still fans of the sling bags listed below, but we ran into some slight issues during testing that prevented several from making our winner’s list.

Codeofbell Annex Carrier 3-way Sling : The modular design is ideal for versatility, but when the bag is packed full, it feels bulky and cumbersome to carry.

Nike Sportswear Essentials Sling Bag 8L : We were impressed with the durability and high-quality feel of the materials, but the bag is awkward to carry and difficult to adjust to find a comfortable fit.

We researched and selected sling bags in various sizes, colors, and designs to find the best options on the market. For several months, we wore the sling bags for activities like air travel, running errands, and hiking to take notes on the functionality of each sling bag. Specifically, we paid close attention to the quality of the materials, analyzing how durable the zippers, fabric, and buckles feel with rough handling. We also noted how easy it was to access items and the overall comfort of the sling bag after being worn for hours on end. The best sling bags we recommend are easy to adjust for a comfortable fit, have multiple intuitive pockets for organizing items, and are made with long-lasting and highly durable materials that will ensure the bag has a long lifespan.

Travel + Leisure / Kimberly Souza

Tips for Buying a Sling Bag

Decide what materials you need.

One of the most compelling reasons to invest in a sling bag is that it can be your most versatile accessory in a wardrobe capsule. Since sling bags come in all types of materials and sizes, you’ll want to consider your primary use of the bag. Outdoor enthusiasts will likely gravitate toward a bag with a more rugged look with nylon or canvas materials that are weather-proof and can handle rigorous activities like hiking, running, or biking. Travelers looking for a more everyday-style bag will appreciate leather material that they can dress up or down easily for day-to-nighttime use. Note that if you're attending a stadium event, your bag must adhere to strict guidelines regardless of style, so choose a stadium-approved clear bag to avoid potential hassles at check-in.

Strike a balance between style and features

Of course, the look and feel of a sling bag are big factors when deciding which one to get, but you can’t forget to consider the most important thing: functionality. If a sling bag is uncomfortable to wear, you might not use it as much, so you’ll want to make sure you get a bag that offers features like an ambidextrous design to wear over either shoulder. You’ll also want to make sure that the bag has a variety of intuitive pockets and smooth zippers that make it easy to swing the bag to the front of the body to grab items conveniently.

Frequently Asked Questions

Since sling bags are a bit bigger than a traditional fanny pack, travelers can fit essentials like wallets, passports, earbuds, and phones, along with a few bigger items like a book, sweater, or tablet. While it depends on the size and capacity of the sling bag, they are excellent personal items to bring on an airplane or used for everyday activities like running errands or sightseeing.

In general, a sling bag can be either be worn as a crossbody bag or belt bag. They are designed with one single crossbody strap that can sometimes be worn on either shoulder, but generally not around the waist like a fanny pack (although some designs may work this way). Larger sling bags are often worn with the bag across the back, which tends to be more comfortable if you're carrying a lot of weight.

Sling bags can be useful for short hikes that don't require a lot of gear. They can be quickly swung around your front for easy access to small items like snacks or water. Because they are worn across your body, sling bags also take some pressure off your shoulders while hiking. For hikes that require heavy gear, a hiking backpack will be more comfortable and supportive.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

T+L commerce writer, Anna Popp , writes nearly all of the team’s Travel + Leisure Tested articles and participates in product testing from luggage and shoes to outdoor gear and apparel. Anna tested a sling bag herself and combed through product testing notes to recommend the best of the best sling bags for traveling, running errands, and shopping.

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zara travel sling bag

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These are the best sling bags to wear when travelling

By Charley Ward

The best sling bags to wear when travelling

A must-have accessory we're adding to our closets (and luggage ) for our next trip: sling bags. Not only are these bags the most practical way to carry all of your daily essentials, they also add an effortless, chic look to even the simplest airport outfit . Since they're made to be worn across your chest, sling bags will keep you hands-free whether you're running errands, on an afternoon hike, or working your way through airport security . And compared to their equally on-trend bag cousin, the bum bag, they tend to be a bit roomier; some even have dedicated pouches to hold water bottles and sunglasses. Below, we've rounded up the best sling bags to wear on all your upcoming trips to make reaching for your passport , hand sanitizer, and phone a breeze.

Image may contain Bag Accessories and Handbag

Bellroy Venture Travel Crossbody

Bellroy's crossbody has been designed specifically with travellers in mind, squeezing in multiple coveted features that other bags on this list can't claim: an RFID-blocked magnetic passport pocket, an internal slip pocket for an AirTag or other luggage tracker , and a divided back pocket for your boarding pass or other travel documents. That's on top of the other four pockets, including a main roomy inner compartment, for your book, snacks and in-flight essentials. It's made from water-resistant recycled nylon, has a removable shoulder strap and comes with a three-year warranty. For airport days, this is the bag to reach for.

zara travel sling bag

Uniqlo's round mini shoulder bag

It's a simple style but in terms of value for money, this Uniqlo sling is hard to beat. The bag blew up on TikTok last year when a 1.7-second  video posted by @caitlinphillimore  demonstrated how much it could fit inside, from a pair of headphones to a large packet of biscuits. One of our writers even put it to the test and  took the viral £15 Uniqlo bag on holiday,  deeming it ‘the perfect travel companion.’ Since then Uniqlo has launched the bag in an array of colours and fabrics, including corduroy in time for winter. Be warned though, the various colours tends to sell out quickly so it's best to buy when you can.

zara travel sling bag

Been London's Annis Sling Bag

The proudly minimal Annis sling, from London-based brand Been, is as eco-friendly as it is chic. All of its leather goods are crafted from offcuts sourced from UK tanneries; pieces that would otherwise go to waste. That would be a real shame, given how smooth, supple and soft it is. It's large enough for your purse, water bottle and small makeup bag, with an inside pocket for keeping a phone or boarding pass easily to hand. The adjustable strap helps keep a snug fit whether wearing a bulky coat or not. It’s available in a choice of three colours and personalisable for an extra £10.

zara travel sling bag

Tumi's Compact Sling

For those who like to travel light, Tumi’s compact sling provides enough space for your daily essentials, with a handy exterior pocket for your phone to claw back more room inside. But the bijou size doesn’t mean that it’s light on features. Concealed within, there’s a key chain, luggage tag , pen loops and a tracer to help reignite you should you misplace it.

zara travel sling bag

July's Carry Me

Australian brand July has a similar, more reasonably-priced hardshell bag, although, of course, without that telltale ridged design. It’s made from the same polycarbonate as the brand’s suitcases, helping ensure precious cargo remains safe, and comes with colour-matched zips and a strap. Inside, there’s a concealed zipped pocket, and the lining detaches to hold the case open.

zara travel sling bag

Coach's Gotham Pack

Coach has created the perfect in-flight bag : sleek, streamlined, and large enough to fit your iPad, book and some snacks. It’s finished in polished pebble leather, with two exterior pockets to keep your phone and keys easily to hand. The strap is adjustable for shoulder or crossbody wear.

zara travel sling bag

Lululemon's Everywhere Belt Bag

This belt bag has gained cult status as one of the best to wear while on the move. Designed to be worn around the waist or over your shoulder, it features an exterior zipped pocket for small essentials like your favourite lip balm, interior pockets for larger items, and an adjustable strap for a comfortable fit. The bag comes in a larger two-litre size as well.

zara travel sling bag

Bellroy's Lite Sling

There’s more than enough space for daily accessories in this roomy Bellroy sling. It's been developed to be especially lightweight, so it’s a good one to reach for on hikes and active days. The seven litre capacity comfortably allows space for a water bottle and daily essentials, plus there's a couple of hidden slip pockets for smaller items like keys, and a specialised sunglasses pouch. It also rolls up impressively small, so you can stow it in your carry-on without losing precious suitcase real estate. The magnetic clasp, which can be opened and closed one-handedly, is a clever upgrade, too.

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zara travel sling bag

Away's The Everywhere Sling Bag

This is a deceptively roomy sling bag with two main compartments, two internal ones and an additional front pocket for your phone or passport. The water-resistant nylon body makes it a good one to bring on hiking expeditions and more adventurous trips away. It comes in a selection of pleasing shades – we like this jaunty blue and green number – including a few that match Away’s suitcase range.

zara travel sling bag

Rimowa's Sling Clutch

Celebrity-favourite luggage brand Rimowa, beloved for its now-iconic ridged aluminium suitcases, has added a practical sling bag to its chic range. It’s got all the style sensibilities you’d expect from a Rimowa case, with a leather interior, two card slots and a roomy compartment to keep sightseeing essentials safe. It is expensive, yes, but a statement-making piece that will last a lifetime – and won’t spend most of its time languishing in the hold.

zara travel sling bag

Prada's Logo Nylon Banana Bag

Small but perfectly formed, with Prada’s signature nylon finish and logo up front, this sling bag has one bijou compartment to keep your keys, purse and phone handy. However, those heading out all day have no need to fear, as the brand also has a roomier option , ready to house all your travel essentials the next time you’re heading off.

zara travel sling bag

COS's Swing Crossbody Bag

COS’s 100 per cent leather bag is a consistent bestseller, retaining its spot in the brand’s core collection year after year. Now, the colour range has expanded to six shades, giving us an option to accompany every outfit. It’s one of the chicer sling bags we’ve found, being versatile enough to handle the hop from office to bar on a weekday through to a sightseeing weekend away seamlessly.

zara travel sling bag

Free People's Hudson Sling Bag

We love this soft suede slouchy bag from Free People for something more boho than sporty. The style features two separate, easy-to-reach zip-up pockets – one small pouch to fit keys and wallet and another larger pouch big enough to fit a medium-sized water bottle. The best part is that the bag comes in 13 different colour options, from spicy mustard yellow to bright crimson red and dark jade green.

12 Sling Bags to Hold All Your Necessities

In the world of effortless bags, slings reign supreme.

a woman wearing sunglasses

Every item on this page was chosen by an ELLE editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.

“They’re the perfect go-to option for when you only want to carry the essentials, and then some,” Chong says. “And, depending on the one you choose, they can be a great way to give your outfits an edge of downtown cool. Personally speaking, I love the options that feel a little more practical with zippers and inner pockets; they have the ability to fit a lot without looking overstuffed.” Ahead, find 12 sling bags where practicality meets panache.

Uniqlo Round Mini Shoulder Bag

Round Mini Shoulder Bag

Don’t be fooled by size, this bag packs a big punch. You may have seen it go viral on TikTok, and it was actually one of the best-selling products of 2023. In fact, it’s so perfect that we gave it a review of its own.

Dimensions: Length: 24.4 inches; width: 11 inches; height: 6.7 inches

Material: Nylon

Customer review: “This is a fun stylish bag, easy everyday carry. Lots of fun colors too.”

The Row Slouchy Banana Leather Shoulder Bag

Slouchy Banana Leather Shoulder Bag

The Row just knows how to make a good bag. This one is timeless, chic, and perfect for taking a look from day to night.

Dimensions: Length: 13.4 inches; width: 13.2 inches; height: 5.9 inches

Material: Leather

Alo Yoga Om The Go Gym Sling Bag

Om The Go Gym Sling Bag

Whether its your bag for the gym , travel, work , or all of the above, this sling bag is a well-rounded option.

Material: Polyester

Customer review: “ So beautiful on and super comfy! Also so stylish! I absolutely love this bag!!”

Cos Swing Crossbody

Swing Crossbody

This sling is crafted from supple smooth-grain leather and has a wide strap that can be held or slung effortlessly across the body.

Dimensions: Length: 3.93 inches; width: 12.36 inches; height: 4.33 inches

Material: Leather, cotton

Cuyana Sling Bag

Sling Bag

This bag from Cuyana is extremely versatile. It comes in three different sizes and—drum roll, please—is washable.

Dimensions: Length: 8-13 inches; width: 16 inches; height: 9.5 inches

Material: Recycled plastic

Lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag

Everywhere Belt Bag

This washable bag is everywhere, including my closet—and my mom’s, sister’s, and roomate’s, to name a few... It is truly the easiest thing to throw on. I resisted for a brief moment and can only say I wish I had bought it sooner.

Dimensions: Length: 7 inches; width: 2 inches; height: 5 inches

Material: Recycled polyester, nylon

Customer review: “ I purchased immediately as it was added to the site on the release day. I didn’t even have time to add more to my cart. I love it!!!”

Givenchy Small Antigona Leather Crossbody Bag

Small Antigona Leather Crossbody Bag

This is your classic black sling but with a more interesting structure. It will go with just about everything.

Dimensions: Length: 2 inches; width: 9 inches; height: 2 inches

Mudono Large Leather Shoulder Purse Casual Hobo

Large Leather Shoulder Purse Casual Hobo

This bag has all the convenience of a sling bag, plus all the style points of a designer purse.

Dimensions: Length: 14.2 inches; width: 4.3 inches; height: 7.5 inches

Material: Vegan leather

Customer review: “ The material feels great, nice and soft.”

Maison de Sabré Leather Sling Bag

Leather Sling Bag

This bag is like the Goldilocks of price and quality—and it comes in three great colors.

Dimensions: Length: 13.5 inches; width: 13 inches: height; 3 inches

Loewe Anton Sling Leather Shoulder Bag

Anton Sling Leather Shoulder Bag

This stunning bag is designed with efficient organization in mind. Multiple compartments and pockets ensure that your belongings are easily accessible, adding a practical dimension to its beyond-cool factor.

Dimensions: Length: 27.5 inches; width: 6.5 inches; height: 13.5 inches

Rebecca Minkoff Chelsea Leather Sling Bag

Chelsea Leather Sling Bag

Don’t forget that sling bags can be worn over the shoulder, too. This one is specifically designed as a shoulder bag, providing a comfortable and stylish alternative to a traditional hand or sling bag.

Dimensions: Length: 4.5 inches; width: 1 inches; height: 5 inches

Amazing Song Hobo Sling Croissant Shoulder Bag

Hobo Sling Croissant  Shoulder Bag

In its compact form, this sling bag manages to encapsulate sophistication, proving that style doesn’t always require bulk—or a hefty price.

Dimensions: Length: 15.75; width: 4.72 inches; height: 11.46 inches

Customer review: “ Almost wasn’t going to post this review so I can keep this brand to myself but decided not to gatekeep an amazing find lol. I’ve been looking for an elevated crescent bag for every day use for months, and believe me, this is the ONE!!!”

Meet the Experts

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  • Dale Arden Chong is ELLE’s senior fashion commerce editor. Previously, she was an editor at MensHealth.com and has written for Who What Wear, GLAMOUR, The Coveteur, and more.

Why Trust ELLE

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Every product featured on ELLE.com is independently researched, tested, or editor-approved. We only recommend products that we stand behind, and the merchandise featured on our site is always driven by editorial and product testing standards, not by affiliate deals or advertising relationships. Any content created in partnership with advertisers is marked as such.

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17 Best Sling Bags to Wear on Hikes, to the Beach, and Everywhere Else

By Meaghan Kenny and Paris Wilson

17 Best Sling Bags to Wear on Hikes to the Beach  Everywhere Else

A must-have accessory we're adding to our closets (and suitcases) this summer and beyond: sling bags. Not only are these bags the most practical way to carry all of your daily essentials, they also add an effortless, chic look to even the simplest  workout or  loungewear set. Since they're made to be worn across your chest, sling bags will keep you hands-free whether you're running errands, on an afternoon hike, or working your way through airport security. When it comes to style we didn’t skimp on the selections either. With summer coming you’ll find vibrant, light colors that will brighten your look. And compared to their equally on-trend bag cousin, the  fanny pack , they tend to be a bit roomier; some have space for your beach read or water bottle. Below, we've rounded up the 17 best sling bags to wear on all your upcoming trips to make reaching for your  passport , wallet, and  sunglasses a breeze.

How do I choose a good sling bag?

Sling bags offer a lot of versatility when it comes to style and use. The main thing to keep in mind when shopping for one: comfort. Since sling bags are designed to sit snugly around your chest, finding one that doesn’t give you aches and pains while having it strapped to your body is the biggest win. The next thing to consider is what you’ll be using it for—is it for travel, concerts, or mostly day-to-day use? That answer can help determine the size and style that will be best for you.

What is the difference between a sling and shoulder bag?

A sling bag is worn around the upper body and compressed to the chest while a shoulder bag hangs lower and typically lands around the waist. Shoulder bags and sling bags come in an array of sizes, but sling bags tend to be more compact and designed to fit the necessities. Shoulder bags are usually larger, and often geared toward sophisticated, dressy settings, whereas slings bags are a more laid-back alternative.

Are sling bags useful?

Sling bags are ideal for occasions where you want to be hands-free, but still have everything you need. A bulky purse or large backpack can be stressful in travel settings, especially if you're worried about pickpockets or just generally losing your valuables. They're the perfect accessory for staying comfortable during long stretches of time on your feet—wear them on day hikes, sightseeing afternoons, and days when you find yourself with a long list of errands to run.

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

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.

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Terra sling bag

For those who might not have stepped into sling bag territory because of the small sizing, Calpak has you covered with its Terra sling bag. It is made of recycled polyester and has nylon compression straps to give you the most comfort while carrying it, as well as a top handle. With a 15-inch main compartment, there’s space for all your needs no matter where you are headed.

zara travel sling bag

Béis Sport sling

This sporty sling will elevate your summer athleisure look. The small sling features a microfiber-lined protective pocket for your valuables, a card organizer, and a water bottle pouch on the outside.

zara travel sling bag

Coral Daisy sling bag

This tiny but mighty choice is perfect for summer days when you just need to carry the bare necessities: phone, cards, and lip balm . It's the ultimate go-to for concerts and music festivals when you want to be hands-free.

zara travel sling bag

Calvin Klein Myra Sling Backpack

The Millie Sling bag has a sleek shape and clean lines. With a pebbled leather exterior, it's the sling to choose in place of a purse when you want a more polished look but need more comfort and space than a small crossbody bag or clutch can provide.

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zara travel sling bag

Baggallini sling

Small but roomy, this Baggallini Sling has space for a day's worth of necessities. There are three pockets to fit your keys, wallet, and earbuds, plus nice-to-have items like a water bottle , sunscreen or bug spray . The adjustable strap adds versatility to your look as well as comfort. Our favorite part: The sling features a side phone pocket, so you'll have a rummage-free day ahead.

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Uniqlo Round Mini Shoulder Bag

Tested by UK contributor Sarah Leigh Bannerman, the Uniqlo Shoulder Bag has almost as much online hype as the Lululemon belt bag . Despite its name, it is popularly worn as a sling bag, and is something of a Mary Poppins tote when it comes to space: Bannerman was able to fit a bottle of water, book, her wallet and passport, hand sanitizer , a face mask, mini sun cream, and a sunglasses case inside.

zara travel sling bag

Tumi Tahoe Lookout Expandable Sling

Save room packing multiple day bags for your next trip with this all-in-one sling bag from Tumi. This versatile sling has an adjustable strap that lets you wear it across your chest and close to your body on either side, and it can be expanded to use as a tote bag . (In its larger configuration, there's room for a water bottle, plenty of snacks, or even a quick change of clothes.) It's lightweight, water-resistant, and durable enough to bring on camping or hiking trips.

zara travel sling bag

Everlane Cactus Sling Bag

This compact leather sling has an adjustable strap and fits only the basics—your phone, credit cards, and passport, at most. Plus, the green shade screams summer and will add a pop of color to a classic white T-shirt and jeans.

zara travel sling bag

Coach Leather Sling Pack

This two-tone pebbled leather sling is ultra-sleek and makes every outfit appear more put together. Great for city trips, like that long-awaited European excursion , it can be worn across the body or on one side similarly to a backpack. Available in brown, ivory, and black leather, each of these shades are ideal for matching all of your summer wardrobe staples. 

zara travel sling bag

Lululemon Wunderlust belt bag

Lululemon's Wunderlust belt bag is the ideal sporty bag for any upcoming weekend trips you're taking. It's contoured to hug your body and can be worn around the waist or over your shoulder for busy days on the move. Made of water-resistant material, this bag features an exterior zipped pocket for small essentials like your favorite lip balm , interior slip pockets, and an adjustable strap for a comfortable fit.

zara travel sling bag

Béis water bottle sling

A favorite of senior commerce editor Madison Flager, the lightweight size of this Béis bag makes staying hydrated on the go an easier task to manage—it fits up to a 32-ounce water bottle while still giving you enough room to keep your phone, keys, and ID zipped away. Thanks to its adjustable strap, it can be worn as a crossbody bag or carried in your hand. The drawstring and cord lock closure cinches around a water bottle, too, keeping it secure on bumpy roads.

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Cuyana Recycled Sling Bag 

Cuyana's recycled sling bag is ideal for when you just want to bring along one versatile bag you can wear multiple ways throughout a weekend trip . It has a zip closure and a slip pocket inside to fit your smaller essentials. Wear it as a short crossbody during the day exploring a new city and then adjust the strap at night to wear as a shoulder bag for dinner. Plus, this 100 percent recycled bag is also washable so you can clean up any accidental spills or scuffs.

zara travel sling bag

66 North crossbody bag

Flager purchased this water resistant sling bag on a trip to Iceland last year and it was the perfect size for storing all of her daytime essentials. She was able to fit an entire standard-size water bottle , Kindle, wallet, earphones, and hand sanitizer inside and still had room to spare. Made of a soft waterproof rubber material, this bag will keep your valuables protected even in unpredictable weather.

zara travel sling bag

MZ Wallace Metro Sling 

This quilted nylon sling bag from MZ Wallace will fit all of your summer essentials and still leave you with room to spare. It has a zipped front section to hold your phone and another zipped pocket inside the main section of the bag for extra storage. The multiple sections help keep me organized on the go—I'm never left digging through my bag for what feels like forever to find lip balm or cash.

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Monos Sling Bag

A pair of bike shorts , a plain T, and this ivory sling bag from Monos will be my summer uniform. Made of vegan leather, this neutral-colored bag matches just about any outfit and elevates even a simple look. The thick, adjustable strap doesn't dig into your skin so it's comfortable to wear all day long, whether you're on a walk or jumping in and out of the car on a road trip. This one has multiple pockets on the inside and even a hidden pocket on the back to store your phone, wallet, or favorite Chapstick. 

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Away Packable Sling Bag

For times when you don't have a whole lot of room in your suitcase to spare, Away's Packable Sling Bag is your friend. It can be folded down and fits into a small zip pouch that you can throw right in your suitcase or another bag when you don't need it. It's lightweight, water-resistant, and the adjustable strap lets you also wear it around the waist or across your chest.

zara travel sling bag

Osprey Daylite Sling Backpack

Ideal for staying hands-free on a hike , bike ride, or camping trip, the Osprey sling is durable and water-resistant. It features a mesh organizer, key clip, and multiple pockets for plenty of storage. The strap is adjustable and the 100 percent recycled fabric is comfortable to wear for hours, even over a tank top or sports bra. 

Shoulder bags

Zara TOTE BAG - Taupe gray

METAL STRAP CLUTCH

Zara BASKET SHOULDER BAG WITH FLOWER - Ecru

BASKET SHOULDER BAG WITH FLOWER

Zara BASKET BAG - Ecru

FAUX PATENT LEATHER SHOULDER BAG

Zara SHOULDER BAG - Yellow

SHOULDER BAG

Zara ANIMAL PRINT CROSSBODY BAG - Leopard

ANIMAL PRINT CROSSBODY BAG

Zara RED LEATHER MINI BUCKET BAG - Red

RED LEATHER MINI BUCKET BAG

Zara FABRIC SHOPPER - Pink

FABRIC SHOPPER

Zara STRIPED SHOPPER BAG - Multi-color

STRIPED SHOPPER BAG

Zara BOW TRIM SATIN EFFECT TOTE BAG - Blue

BOW TRIM SATIN EFFECT TOTE BAG

Zara MULTI-POSITIONAL CROSSBODY BAG - Ecru

MULTI-POSITIONAL CROSSBODY BAG

Zara BRAIDED ROPE SHOULDER BAG - Dark tan

BRAIDED ROPE SHOULDER BAG

Zara COMBINATION TOTE BAG - Dark tan

COMBINATION TOTE BAG

Zara SEQUIN MINI BASKET BAG - Black

SEQUIN MINI BASKET BAG

Zara BEADED SHOULDER BAG - Multi-color

BEADED SHOULDER BAG

Zara COMPARTMENTALIZED TOTE BAG - Ecru

COMPARTMENTALIZED TOTE BAG

Zara EMBROIDERED TOTE BAG - white

EMBROIDERED TOTE BAG

Zara FAUX PATENT LEATHER SHOULDER BAG - Orange

BEADED BUCKET BAG

Coveted shoulder bags for women, you might like.

  • Bucket bags
  • Evening bags
  • Silver bags
  • Chain Handbags
  • Quilted Bags
  • Leather Crossbody Bags
  • Animal print
  • Raffia bags

Travel Fashion Girl

15 Best Sling Bags for Women to Hold Sightseeing Essentials

Backpacks , Handbags , LUGGAGE

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Practical, versatile, and gaining lots of popularity from a style standpoint, too, sling bags are a travel gem! These women’s sling bag styles will keep your must-have essentials close at hand as you embark on your exciting trips. Take a look!

Best Sling Bag Women Love for Travel

Table of contents.

When you need to have your essentials close by during your travels but want to keep things light and have all the mobility you need, a sling crossbody bag is the answer. Readers love them for sightseeing and say their simplicity, amazing convenience, and versatile-wearing are ideal when on the go.

Reaching for your phone, passport, wallet, and other must-haves has never been easier. Find the best sling bag for travel that readers absolutely adore!

Looking for the right personal item? Check out these tips and find out the best personal onboard item to take with you!

Best Sling Pack for Travel

best-sling-bag-for-women

Shop: Amazon

Travelon Anti-Theft Women’s Sling Purse

Travelon’s crossbody sling bag for ladies will not only keep things conveniently close by but will keep all your items safe and secure as can be with its anti-theft features! It has a simple, sleek look, and inside, there are plenty of RFID-protected card slots and passport holder, plus a key clip with an LED light. There is even room for a small water bottle. The bag is fully slash-proof, long-lasting, and comfy to wear — however you wear it!

Readers absolutely adore this Travelon anti theft sling bag! One says, “It was small enough that it didn’t get too heavy and was easy to carry nice and close. But also big enough to carry all of my essentials. I felt really secure with it! Plus it’s small enough to fit comfortably in another bag.”

We’ve rounded up the best anti theft travel bags for women, and our readers have voted for their favorite styles. Find out the options they love the most!

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Shop: Nordstrom |  Tumi

Tumi Sedona Women’s Small Sling Bag

Aside from holding the day’s necessities, these  Tumi sling packs  will add a chic, effortless element to your outfit. Sleek and durable, this nylon sling purse can hold essentials in a front zip pocket and there’s a back pocket with a magnetic closure. Readers adore Tumi bags for their quality and functional designs, and this sling pack comes with a handy  Tumi Tracer  for extra protection.

One traveler says, “Love this bag! It’s the perfect size- I can carry everything I need! The bonus is that it’s gorgeous- perfectly smooth, sleek, and simple. Love it!” Read our review on this popular brand. — Link to our Tumi review where it says “review”.

Find out what our readers have to say about their Tumi Bags in this review !

best-sling-bag-for-women

Shop: Quince

Quince Italian Leather Womens Shoulder Sling Bag

If you’re going for chic, Quince has you covered with its sleek  crossbody sling bag purse . Made of genuine pebbled Italian leather, it has ample room for smaller travel items and a back zippered pocket to hold valuables like ID cards. This leather sling backpack is lightweight and high-quality and is ready for any and all adventures.

One reviewer says, “Very well made and trendy, and perfect for a trip to Italy!” Another popular pick is the  Quince Quilted sling , it’s a little larger and equally as chic!

Looking for the best travel shoulder bags for women? Here’s are TFG readers’ all time favorite cross body purses for travel!

best-sling-bag-for-women

Shop: Lo & Sons

Lo & Sons Waverley 2 Women’s Leather Sling Bag

When all you need are the basics, the Lo & Sons leather sling bags for women are a gorgeous pick! Constructed with pretty, textured leather (with a faux leather option available!) that’s both scratch and weather-resistant, it’ll stay looking beautiful over time. The interior offers stellar organization, and you can wear it in four different ways and choose from a small and large size!

Travelers rave about this womens leather sling bag! A user shares, “This belt bag was perfect for my trip to Greece . It was always at my side and transitioned perfectly from running around in the airport to slinging it on my shoulder for dinner. It was small enough to not feel bulky on my waist but big enough to fit all the travel essentials (passport, keys, phone).”

Find out why our readers love their Lo & Sons bags in this review !

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Away Everywhere Travel Sling Bag

Away’s Everywhere chest sling bag  will keep things super light and add tons of convenience to your travel adventures. The water-resistant nylon is durable and easy to care for, and it has two handy pockets and interior pockets. One of this sling back bags standout features is that it has secret back pocket to hold your passport.

The adjustable strap that you can wear in many different ways (sling or belt bag) is yet another great bonus. If you want something more sporty, the  Away Packable sling  is also water-resistant and folds down into a teeny pouch!

best-sling-bag-for-women

Shop: Calpak

Calpak Terra Womens Sling Bag

The  Calpak Terra  sling pack for women will not only make the cutest addition to your travel look but will securely hold all you need for a day of travel. The nylon strap is adjustable, and there’s also a little top handle for easy grab-and-go carrying.

With its durable, water-resistant, and easy-to-clean fabric, this travel sling bag for ladies can handle anything from beach trips to theme park rides to day hikes! A user says, “Very comfortable, lots of compartments, and lightweight. Highly recommend it for international travel, as I brought it to Africa on a trip.”

Discover the best ultralight backpacks and add one to your shopping list!

best-sling-bag-for-women

Shop:  MZ Wallace

MZ Wallace Crossbody Nylon Women Sling Bag

If you’re looking for something larger but still just as functional, look to this MZ Wallace Crossbody women sling purse . It’s a spacious option made of travel-friendly nylon with leather trim and has a stylish and contemporary design that’s perfect for city sightseeing.

This sling purse for ladies is comfy to wear and won’t weigh you down, so there’s more room to pack your travel must-haves! It’d be perfect for storing all your in-flight essentials, too.

A reader puts it simply, “I love MZ Wallace bags. They’re lightweight but durable, comfy but stylish.”

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Shop: Sherpani  |  Amazon

Sherpani Esprit Anti-Theft Women’s Sling Backpack

Perfectly compact and ultra functional, the Sherpani anti-theft slingback bags have anti-theft technology and comfy straps for carrying around everywhere! The rugged, nylon construction will keep your must-haves safe and sound, plus the sleek-sporty look can go casual to semi-casual in a heartbeat. Wear it through the airport, sightseeing, or on the trails!

These womens sling bags have a ton of organizational pockets, including a compartment for a water bottle. A reviewer highly recommends them, saying, “I’m a big fan of these. It’s my favorite bag!”

Find out what our readers have to say about their Sherpani bags in this review !

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Shop: Amazon | Nordstrom | The North Face

North Face Borealis Ladies Cross Body Sling Bag

The Northface Borealis shoulder sling backpacks offer great organization and lasting comfort in one sporty yet cute package. It offers plenty of packing space, with a sleeve that fits a small tablet or large phone, a mesh zip pocket, a key clip, and a bungee system on the outside. Plus, it’ll keep your gear safe inside its rugged, water-repellent, ripstop fabric.

With this slingback bag slung over your shoulder, you’ll be able to take on the most intense of outdoor excursions! One reader agrees, saying, “This small, lightweight crossbody pack worked great for hikes in the Adirondacks. Good stability for scrambling over rocks, crossing creeks, and hiking through woods. Just enough capacity to hold essentials and a small water bottle. Highly recommend!”

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Shop: Amazon | Walmart

MOSISO Unisex Waterproof Travel Sling Bag

This Mosiso cross body sling is beyond versatile due to its convenient size, great organizational features, and sturdy construction. It’s equipped with a large zippered compartment for a tablet, multiple pockets, and two mesh bags on each side to hold water bottles or an umbrella. Users say these crossbody sling bags hold up well over time and are super comfortable to wear!

It comes in a huge range of colors, too! A traveler reports, “I love my little sling travel bag. Took it to Mexico , and it was all I needed to carry my essentials. It was very comfortable and can fit more than you think. I loved the color and waterproof material. I highly recommend it for traveling anywhere.”

Find out what we think the best business backpack is for your next adventure!

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Shop: Lululemon

Lululemon All Night Festival Women’s Slingbag

Readers are constantly recommending Lululemon’s crossbody slings for travel, including the stylish All Night Festival cross body sling bag women’s style . It’s designed to give you tons of mobility while you’re on the go and the water-repellent fabric adds to its functionality. It makes the perfect day bag with a practical size and a sleek look!

A reader with this over the shoulder sling bag says, “I love it! I feel that my stuff inside is secure, and no one can just slip into it.”

Our readers love these crossbody phone purses for keeping their devices handy!

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Vera Bradley Lighten Up Reactive Women’s Sling Back Pack

Stay hands-free and mobile with the Lighten Up Reactive mini sling purses . The fabric is soft and comfy, lightweight, and durable, too. You’ll be able to keep organized with front zip pockets, pen slips, a phone slip, a key ring, and a large hidden zip pocket on the back to hold your valuables securely.

These cute sling bags are also waterproof and come in a range of unique patterns. A reader says, “Makes a great day bag. It has a zipper pocket on the other side (against my back) where I stash my cash.”

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Shop: Amazon | Nordstrom | Osprey

Osprey Daylite Womens Hiking Sling Bag

The Osprey Daylite is a must-have cross body sling bag women love for their active trips! It’ll keep you hands-free and your belongings safe so you can focus on your adventure! It’s water repellent, has multiple zip pockets for organization, and the adjustable strap makes for comfortable and secure wearing.

A traveler sings the praises of this sling back bag, “This bag is extremely well-built. The materials and workmanship are top-notch. Use it for short hikes, or carry it on a vacation city trek, to the beach, or through the airport to help keep your hands free and your stuff together. It’ll comfortably carry your phone, wallet, keys, a map, and other small personal items.”

We’ve compiled a list of the best osprey backpacks so you can pick your favorite one!

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Shop: Amazon | REI  | Backcountry

KAVU Original Rope Crossbody Sling Bag

KAVU is a longtime reader favorite, and their Original Rope sling bag crossbody is a major winner for all kinds of travel. It’s lightweight yet strong, the rope straps are sturdy, soft, and long-lasting, and it has a super fun look overall! It has multiple pockets, and the interior is roomy enough for a water bottle, camera, and other small essentials.

A reader loves her KAVU crossbody sling bag women’s style and says, “It’s incredible and so comfortable. It has a very long adjustable strap that makes it easy to adjust depending on what I’m carrying in it. I can wear mine all day. It’s so easy to slide to your front and access the pockets! It has to be one of my favorite bags.”

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Shop: Canvelle

Canvelle Ladies Sling Bag

Canvelle is a brand that has recently gained popularity with TFG readers, and these adorable cross body sling bags are major winners for sightseeing. Aside from its cute and versatile look, readers love how comfy this bag is to carry, with its wide strap and an air-cushioned back panel. It’ll also keep your phone secure in its hidden back pocket (which is also water-resistant!).

They also offer a range of patterned straps for you to customize the look! One user shares, “This bag holds all my essentials with room to spare. It’s neutral enough to go with everything, and the gold hardware gives it an elevated look. Being able to machine wash this bag is the icing on the cake!”

Best Sling Bags for Travel Comparison Chart

What do you think is the best travel sling bag for ladies ? Share and comment below!

For more women’s travel bags and backpacks, please read:

  • Best Travel Day Bag: How to Choose the Right One
  • Best Camera Bags for Women to Always be Ready to Take Epic Photos
  • Best Messenger Bags for Women: Functional and Adorable Options
  • Cute Backpacks for Travel You’ll Want to Wear Everywhere

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We hope you liked this post on the best sling packs for women. Please share with your friends on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest. Thanks for reading!

Lesa Gleb

Thanks for the info on sling bags. After reviewing the various bags, I ordered the Travelon Anti-Theft Women’s Sling Purse through your link. It’ll go with me on an upcoming trip to Morocco and Egypt! Woo Hoo!

Kathy Costello

I have looking for a sling bag for an upcoming cruise. Thank you for the great options and reviews. It helped me make a decision by giving reviews and details. Great information!

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How To Choose The

Best Sling Bag

The minimalist's guide to selecting a sling bag for travel, everyday carry, and beyond.

  • 01. Introduction
  • 02. Our Picks
  • 04. Function
  • 05. Aesthetic
  • 06. Conclusion

Ready to embrace the sling bag trend? Step one: read this guide.

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The Short Answer: The Best Sling Bags for Travel, EDC, and Beyond

Click for more information about these top picks and why we like them.

  • 8.7/10: Aer Day Sling 3
  • 8.6/10: Bellroy Venture Ready Sling 2.5L
  • 8.5/10: TOM BIHN Side Effect
  • 8.3/10: Peak Design Everyday Sling 3L (V2)
  • 8.3/10: Mission Workshop Spar Sling
  • 8.3/10: Patagonia Ultralight Black Hole Mini Hip Pack
  • 8.3/10: Heimplanet Transit Line Sling Pocket
  • 8.2/10: Chrome Industries Kadet
  • 8.2/10: Patagonia Atom Sling
  • 8.2/10: Trakke Banana Crossbody Bag
  • 8.1/10: EVERGOODS Mountain Hip Pack 3.5L

How to Choose the Best Sling Bag for Travel and Beyond

The ’90s are back and with them, the slightly edgier, far more hipster cousin of fanny packs—sling bags (and scrunchies, but that’s a guide for another time). Sling bags are, yes, a fashion statement, but also a convenient way to carry the essentials while traveling the world. Think of them as the middle ground between a backpack and your pockets.

In this guide, we’re going to walk you through how to choose the best sling bag for your situation, which means diving into all of the different aspects and explaining what works best for a variety of situations. We’re also going to provide some specific sling bag recommendations based on months of testing.

This guide is written and informed by the Pack Hacker team, all of whom are gear fiends, and some of whom have been wearing sling bags since before they were cool (#hipster). Testing and reviewing gear is our bread and butter here at Pack Hacker—our team of world travelers and digital nomads have tested and reviewed hundreds of different types of travel-specific gear at this point. In fact, we have used nearly all of the sling bags mentioned in this guide (and we’ll be getting our hands on those we haven’t very soon).

By the time you finish reading this guide, you’ll be a sling expert with all the knowledge necessary to find the best sling bag for you—or your mom, your friend, your dog, etc.

Remember, there’s no one sling bag to rule them all, there’s just the best sling bag for you . So we highly suggest reading our complete guide to figure out your best fit (your future favorite one might not have made this list).

Video Overview: 10 Sling Bags | Should You Travel With One?

Feel free to watch this guide overview in video format. We’ll go more in-depth in the written content and keep this page up to date.

Be sure to subscribe to Pack Hacker on YouTube and never miss a video.

What is a Sling Bag?

This question is not as straightforward as it seems. It’s taken a team of six bona fide gear reviewers analyzing 50+ sling bags and hip packs for over two months to come up with an answer we can all get behind (and there’s still some ambiguity).

We've Tested a Lot of Slings

Here’s the definition we’ve landed on: A sling bag is (drum roll, please…) a bag that’s designed to be worn comfortably across the chest or back and secured to the body with a cross-shoulder style strap. The buckle tends to be off-center, the straps connect diagonally, and the body of the bag tends to have an oblong shape—we say “tends to” because there are quite a few exceptions, which we’ll get into later.

One small clarification is that while sling bags and messenger bags have a similar thing going on with the single, crossbody style of strap—the two aren’t synonymous. Messenger bags are usually bigger, boxier, and don’t contour to the body, but there’s no exact science. Really, you can go with your gut here. We tend to think you’ll know a messenger bag when you see one.

There is a massive variety of sling bag styles out there, including tactical slings (for outdoor sportsman stuff), high-fashion slings (think Gucci), and backpack slings ( spacious enough for a laptop ). While we’ll touch on those, we’re mainly going to focus on sling bags for travel in this guide.

What’s the Difference Between a Sling Bag and a Hip Pack?

You’ll see people on the internet equating sling bags with hip packs (or waist packs, fanny packs, bum bags, belt bags, whatever you want to call them), but sling bags and hip packs aren’t one and the same. We repeat: sling bags and hip packs are not the same things.

Simply put, a hip pack is the rebranded fanny pack, while a sling bag is something different (it’s the hipster cousin, remember?). A hip pack can almost always be a sling bag, albeit not necessarily a good one, but a sling bag is virtually never a hip pack (like a square is a rectangle, but a rectangle is not a square).

That said, almost every single company out there has its own definition of a sling bag and a hip pack. To make things even more complicated, some companies will throw in the term “crossbody bag” to describe what we consider a sling bag. So, it gets messy—and our rules and definitions are by no means absolutes.

In this guide, we won’t be discussing hip packs. Getting into the nitty-gritty of sling bags is complicated enough.

Why a Sling Bag?

Now that you know what a sling bag is, let’s talk about why one will change your life (or, at the very least, make carrying stuff easier).

Sling Bags Are Perfect for Your In-Flight Essentials

Since wearing one backpack on the front and one on the back hasn’t caught on yet (yes, we’re surprised too), a sling bag becomes a great place to keep your pocketable items, especially while in transit. Just toss all of your stuff in your sling and throw the entire thing in a bin as you breeze through airport security like a pro, thus avoiding the much-dreaded “security shuffle.”

And, unlike pockets, a sling bag will fit almost everything you could ever want in-flight (within reason—a masseuse obviously won’t fit). Of course, what you carry in your sling bag is as unique as you are. Here are a few suggestions based on what works for us:

  • A smartphone
  • Snacks (arguably the most important)
  • Tech chargers
  • Battery bank
  • Earplugs (every plane has at least one crying baby, even if it’s your own; it’s like a law of physics or something)
  • Notebook and pen (something about being at 35,000 feet gets the creative juices flowing)
  • An e-reader or book (depending on your sling; some are too small to fit one)

Once in flight, you can use a carabiner to hook your sling bag to the seat in front of you. That way, you can quickly grab a snack before you get hangry, some tissues because the movie you picked happens to be a lot sadder than you thought it’d be, or a phone charger because Tetris drains battery life surprisingly quickly. You know, only the essentials.

Sling Bags Are Perfect for Your Day Trip Essentials

Similar to the above perk, a sling bag may just be the perfect accessory for a day trip. Sometimes all you need are the basics—wallet, keys, phone—and while pockets may get the job done, 1) some clothes lack practical pockets, 2) skinny jeans are a thing, and 3) some clothes don’t have pockets at all. (*cough* Women’s clothing! *cough*)

Even if you are #blessed with useable pockets, some day trips require a few “extra” items, although not quite enough to make lugging around an entire backpack worthwhile. A sling bag allows you to bring:

  • Extra camera lenses
  • Extra camera batteries
  • Snacks (still the most important)
  • Nintendo Switch (a gamer’s gotta game)

What Fits in a Sling

Sling bags truly are the middle ground between a daypack and your pockets. If you’re usually a daypack kind of person, switching to a sling bag forces you to think about what you’re bringing. And your back will thank you for leaving that copy of War and Peace behind because, let’s be honest, you’re just going to look at memes on your smartphone anyway. Alternatively, if you’re usually a pocket kind of person, you can avoid overly-full pockets and think less about what you’re bringing, tossing all sorts of fun goodies into your sling bag just because you can.

Sling Bags Are Lightweight and Packable

Sling bags—specifically ones designed for travel—weigh almost nothing and can easily lay flat in your travel backpack . You can pack it and forget about it until you require your sling’s services (see the above perk).

Sling Bags Provide Easy Access

Sling bags are ridiculously easy to get in and out of. When worn on your chest, the pocket(s) is (are) literally right under your nose, and when worn on your back, you can shift it around to your front. However, beware of the T-Rex arms that can happen when the sling bag is worn high on your chest (yeah, you knew exactly what we were talking about as soon as we said “T-Rex arms,” didn’t you?).

Sling Bags Are En Vogue

At least for the time being, sling bags are “in.” You’ll find them in pretty much every high street store, and even luxury brands like Louis Vuitton are selling them. We don’t know about you, but we love it when fashion and convenience merge.

Other Use-Cases for Sling Bags Include:

  • Festivals (both for convenience and trendiness)
  • Everyday carry (especially for those who cycle to work)
  • Hiking and outdoor adventuring
  • Exploring cities
  • Amusement parks
  • A million other things

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One of our favorite slings may just become your favorite sling.

Aer Day Sling 3 Review

We dig the Aer Day Sling 3 so much that it was one of our first-ever Pack Hacker Picks—an exclusive list of our favorite travel products. You might be thinking, that’s great, but why do you like it? Well, let’s talk about it.

We’ve used this sling all over the globe, from the United States to Thailand and South Korea. The front pocket is a solid place to stow quick-use items like sunglasses and hand sanitizer, and the main compartment works well for the bulk of our gear like a wallet and battery bank. This is a great sling if you’re into organization but still like having the freedom to store large items, as there’s plenty of room leftover for bulky gear like a hat and gloves. In addition to intuitive storage, this pack stands on its own thanks to a flat base and has an easy-to-use magnetic FIDLOCK buckle on the strap.

The primary material is 1680D CORDURA® Ballistic Nylon, which is highly durable, water-resistant, and gives the sling a sleek look that looks good in pretty much any setting. There’s an X-Pac version, too, which is ideal if you’re looking for something more lightweight, though it sounds a bit crunchy in our experience. The zippers are from YKK, and the other hardware is from Duraflex, which are two of the best brands in the business.

Why We Like It

  • The flat base enables it to stand up, so it’s easy to load up before leaving home
  • The materials and hardware are incredibly durable

What You Should Know

  • There’s no organization in the front pocket, so you may need to fish around for what you need
  • We’ve had experience with the FIDLOCK buckle coming disengaged while we’re wearing the sling, though it’s not often enough to cause major concerns

Bellroy Venture Ready Sling 2.5L Review

If you’re looking for a smaller sling that you can take anywhere, the Bellroy Venture Ready Sling 2.5L might be the best sling bag for your next trip. It has Bellroy’s signature look: durable materials, capable hardware, and a thin strap that you’ll either love or wish had more padding. We think it’s enough because the sling’s size is pretty proportional to the strap, but it’s worth considering if you prefer extra cushion.

The primary material here is Bellroy’s Canva Ripstop, which feels a little rough in the hand but offers high durability and excellent water resistance. That’s paired with YKK AquaGuard zippers, which ensure no water sneaks through the openings in the pack. To top it all off, the self-compression design helps create a natural sleek look no matter how packed out the sling is, which we dig.

Inside, we’ve got two compartments to work with. The secondary pocket has a divider in the center, making it easy to segment small gear rather than it getting jumbled together. As for the main compartment, it’s a simple design with just enough organization to keep your items in check, including a structured slip pocket for your phone and a raised zippered pocket to keep your sunglasses from getting crushed. The 2.5L capacity is the perfect amount to stow all the gear you’d typically keep in your pockets (plus a little extra) to ensure your day is comfortable, whether walking to get Gelato or hiking up a mountain.

Bellroy has multiple Venture slings in multiple sizes, though they have a slightly different design to this one from the Venture Ready line, which is designed to handle more rugged adventures. That said, we like those other slings, too, so you’ve got plenty of size options if this 2.5L sling is a bit too small.

  • The self-compression strap ensures a comfortable fit, no matter how packed out the sling is
  • There’s a divider in the front pocket which helps organize small gear
  • We’ve experienced the magnetic buckle coming disengaged when pushed at a specific angle
  • Though they’re not uncomfortable, the materials are a bit more rugged than we often see in slings

Tom Bihn Side Effect Main Access

If you’re into versatility, now’s your time to shine. This sling bag is more of a 4-in-1 all-purpose pouch that can be carried as a sling, as a waist pack, with a handle loop, or attached to a key ring (which can then be hooked to a bag or your belt). Or, remove the strap entirely and use it as a 3D organizer in your luggage, as it’s just the right size for toiletries, tech, jewelry, and the like.

That said, this is a guide to help you find the best sling bag for your next trip, so we’ll focus on that. The front pocket is simple and works well for stowing a passport or other quick-use items. Meanwhile, the main compartment has two liner pockets, which are perfect for your wallet, phone, or headphones. Plus, in trademark TOM BIHN fashion, there are four O-rings throughout the bag. These are handy for attaching additional pouches to hold smaller gear you don’t want to lose in the depths of the main compartment, like ChapStick or dongles.

In typical TOM BIHN fashion, there are tons of material and colorway choices available. They’re constantly adding and switching out specifics, so we won’t dive into them. Since TOM BIHN is a leader in durable, well-engineered gear, you really can’t go wrong with any of the options. Simply put, they make gear to last through the materials they utilize, the designs they employ, and the hardware that brings it all together.

TOM BIHN’s style may feel as if it’s stuck in the 1990s, but we’re all in for a hint of nostalgia and their gear’s durability, combining to make this one of the best sling bag models on the market.

  • The materials, hardware, and design are durable and timeless, so you’ll have this sling for years without it going out of style
  • You can customize the interior using O-rings to attach extra pouches
  • The design can feel more like a handbag than a sling
  • The strap gets twisted fairly easily

Peak Design Everyday Sling 3L

As the name describes, the second iteration of the Peak Design Everyday Sling 3L is meant to be used as a daily driver, whether you’re commuting to work or crossing the globe. Before we dive too far into this particular model, it’s worth noting that there are 6L and 10L versions of this bag, too, so you can size up if you feel that three liters is too limiting.

The exterior is crafted from 100% recycled 400D double poly-coated and DWR-impregnated nylon canvas, which is a fancy way of saying that it’s highly durable and water-resistant. The zippers were created in a partnership between Peak Design and Zoom, meaning they were designed to be used exclusively on Peak Design packs, so it’s no surprise that they work so well.

There’s an exterior pocket with no organization, which is a stellar spot to stow camera accessories if you’re using this as a photography bag or pocketable items like a phone or wallet. The main compartment was designed to be versatile, offering storage for a mirrorless camera and two small lenses (or one larger one), but you can utilize it for your everyday carry gear, too. There’s a quick-grab pocket that has organization for smaller gear, like chargers or adapters.

Whether you’re a seasoned photographer looking for a bag to take on your next trip or looking for something to commute across the city with to get to work, this is one of the best sling bag models on the market regarding durability, weather resistance, and versatility.

  • The exterior is designed to protect your gear from the elements—an essential feature of a camera-focused bag
  • It can be used to stow camera gear or everyday carry equipment
  • We’ve noticed that the back panel won’t sit flat against your body when the bag is completely full, which impacts carry comfort
  • Oblong-shaped items stored in the front compartment can make it look bulky

Mission Workshop Spar In Detroit

The Mission Workshop Spar Sling is one of the larger packs on this list, coming in at eight liters. In fact, it’s so large that it can fit up to a 15-inch laptop, too. Are you interested yet? We thought you might be.

The exterior is crafted from Dimension Polyant VX-07 Diamond Ripstop or 500D Multicam® CORDURA®, depending on your chosen colorway. Both are durable, highly water resistant, and give the pack a sleek look. It’s heavier than other slings of this size that we’ve tested, but the strap does a great job balancing the weight.

There’s only a little organization present here; however, for a sling of this style, we prefer it like that. Eight liters is a lot for a sling, but considering it can carry your laptop, there’s probably a lot of gear you want to bring alongside your computer. If there was a ton of segmentation, your gear might be more organized, but you wouldn’t be able to fit as much inside because you’d be confined to the size of the included pockets. With this sling, you can fit your computer, charger, and other everyday carry and tech items inside for trips to the coffee shop, office, or back home after a long day of exploring—maybe just store small gear in a couple of pouches to keep it from getting jumbled together.

Plus, you can wear the Mission Workshop Spar Sling in sling, crossbody, or messenger modes, so you can switch things up if one way becomes uncomfortable. Considering its size and versatility, this might be the best sling bag for your next trip. Or, one bag it, and see what you can’t live without!

  • You can fit up to a 15″ laptop inside
  • There are three carry methods to meet your specific travel needs
  • It’s heavy compared to slings of a similar size we’ve tested
  • There isn’t a ton of organization, so you’ll need to DIY it with pouches and cubes

Patagonia Ultralight Black Hole Mini Hip Pack in Detroit

You’ve come to the right place if you’re looking for a lightweight mini sling. The Patagonia Ultralight Black Hole Mini Hip Pack has just a liter of capacity; however, its 3.5-ounce weight makes it a versatile travel companion. It’s crafted from ripstop nylon, which is lightweight, durable, and water-resistant.

The front pocket is just big enough to stow a pair of headphones, a small charging cable, or a pack of gum. You’ll find more organization in the main compartment for large gear, and there’s a zippered pocket items you want to keep separate. There isn’t much segmentation here, which we’re not mad about, because too much organization would take up valuable space in this tiny sling. Since it’s so small, you can pack it into your carry on luggage or travel backpack and take it out once you arrive at your destination to carry around the city.

To assist in that plight, the Ultralight Black Hole Mini Hip Pack packs into its own pocket, fitting into the palm of your hand once zipped up. This makes it easier to bring it on a trip if you don’t know whether you’ll need it or not. No matter where you’re going, who doesn’t need a little extra space?

  • It packs into itself to save space in your travel bag, which is handy if you’re not a frequent sling user on trips
  • The ripstop design adds durability to the lightweight material, so you don’t sacrifice weight for reliability
  • The look is somewhat sporty, so it’s difficult to dress up with an outfit
  • It can be challenging to fit gear into the small pocket

Heimplanet Transit Line Sling Pocket In Detroit, Michigan

The Heimplanet Transit Line Sling Pocket may look large upon initial inspection, but it comes in at a singular liter because of how thin it is. The primary external materials are 800D nylon and 660D polypropylene DYECOSHELL, which is a sustainably sourced, durable material that gives the sling a speckled look. It’s durable as heck, too, which we’re here for. After nine months of use, we’ve noticed some slight fraying on the edges of the fabric, but it isn’t compromising the sling—it’s more of an aesthetic issue.

There’s ample organization inside the main compartment considering this sling’s capacity, which makes stowing and finding your wallet, phone, or tiny tech (think headphones or charger) easy. For this reason, we love taking this sling onto a flight as a personal item. It won’t weigh you down or cause discomfort, but you can still stow and find all of the gear you need pretty quickly. Because it’s so tiny, the carry can sometimes feel lopsided if you have something heavy on one side of the sling. That said, as you get used to carrying this thing, you can remedy that issue by finding where your gear best rests to offset weight distribution.

  • The organization is thoughtful and doesn’t get in the way, which is a rarity for such a tiny sling
  • The materials and hardware are durable despite some cosmetic damage over the course of our testing
  • Heavier items can create an unbalanced carry experience
  • The edges of the fabric will start to fray over time

Chrome Industries Kadet in Detroit

The Chrome Industries Kadet is a cross between a messenger bag and a sling bag, which means that it has features from both that make it a candidate for the best sling bag. At nine liters, there’s a ton of space to work with. However, that also means it has a pretty big footprint, which may be challenging for those with small frames to get used to. It’s 17 inches on the long edge, which is as tall as some capable daypacks we’ve tested.

The exterior is clad with 1050D nylon and YKK zippers, which have held up well in our testing. The buckle is Chrome Industries’ trademark seat belt style, which offers a unique heritage style along with a durable, reliable closure.

The secondary compartment has no organization but is fairly large, so you can stow daily items you might want quick access to here. Think sunglasses, a phone, a wallet, or a transit card. You won’t find much more organization inside the main compartment. There’s a divider pocket for a tablet or book and a few smaller iterations that work well for everyday carry gear like a bike tool or flashlight. The rest of the space is yours to work with, meaning there’s enough room for a packable rain jacket, tech pouch, or other large gear.

The Chrome Industries Kadet is a solid bet if you’re okay with heavier materials and minimal organization. Seriously, this thing is durable, and you can fit a ton of gear inside. This might be the best sling bag for rugged adventures or those with a tough commute.

  • The materials are durable, and the hardware is unique (especially if you like seat belt buckles!)
  • The main compartment has a ton of space for stowing large items that won’t fit in most sling bags
  • It’s very long, so it may feel too large on smaller-framed travelers
  • The lack of organization can be overwhelming for those who are used to every piece of gear having a home

Patagonia Atom Sling In Ferndale

If you were around in the early 2000s, you might remember a fad where kids were wearing sling-style backpacks to school. Many popular brands made them, and you were only cool if you had one. If you couldn’t get one back then, there’s still time! Enter the Patagonia Atom Sling.

This thing offers a hint of nostalgia paired with Patagonia’s commitment to making durable gear with a purpose. The high-tenacity nylon is partially recycled and perfect for more rugged trips. On the other side, the shoulder strap and back panel are amply padded and aerated to promote comfort, whether crossing the city or taking a strenuous day hike. For gear that won’t fit inside, there’s a compression system on the pack’s front where you can attach items like a rain jacket or small tripod.

The quick-grab pocket is perfect for snacks, your phone, or your wallet. Inside the main compartment is a tablet sleeve and ample open space to stow whatever else you need for the day, from a tech pouch to a bag of chips.

The shoulder strap can only be worn on your right shoulder, which you might remember if you had one of these in middle school. Similar to the weight of textbooks, travel gear can get heavy, which can cause discomfort during long days of wandering around a new place. You can always wear it on your front side to relieve any stress your right shoulder might be experiencing, but we think that looks goofy. To each their own, though.

  • There’s ample padding on the back panel and shoulder strap to increase carry comfort
  • The simple organization because it’s still effective in keeping your gear organized
  • You can only wear it over your right shoulder, so lefties may want to look elsewhere
  • It has a sporty look that’s hard to make look, well, not sporty

Trakke Banana Crossbody Bag in Detroit

The Trakke Banana Crossbody Bag is a unique sling bag for several reasons. First, it’s named after a fruit. We feel healthier just thinking about it! Next, it’s crafted from waxed canvas, which isn’t something we see super often. Last, it’s handcrafted in Scotland, which is the conversation starter you never knew you needed!

The waxed canvas looks sleek and is super durable, though it tends to stay wet once it gets wet, so it isn’t the best choice for climates that see a lot of rain. You can wear it as a crossbody bag or a hip pack, which is ideal for travel because it’s more versatile. The strap doesn’t offer padding or aeration, which is something to consider if you prefer a plush carry experience.

There’s just a small zippered pocket on the back and one large compartment, and you’re pretty much left to your devices when it comes to organization. The space isn’t the easiest to utilize, as the tapered design creates harsh corners where it’s hard to fit gear. That said, once you get the hang of using the shape, the carry is comfortable enough to outweigh not having dedicated internal organization, we think. The look, materials, and unique features make this one of the best sling bag models on the market.

  • The waxed canvas exterior gives it a unique heritage look
  • It’s made very well—you’re paying for longevity with this sling
  • Its banana shape takes some getting used to when it comes to figuring out where to store your gear
  • The materials take a while to dry after getting soaking wet, so avoid carrying this thing in heavy rain

EVERGOODS Mountain Hip Pack 3.5L | Using the waist pack in Detroit

Here at Pack Hacker, we find that a middle-sized sling is typically best for travel because it’s small enough to be packed into another bag and large enough to carry more than what you’d typically keep in your pockets. Inside this happy middle ground at 3.5 liters is the EVERGOODS Mountain Hip Pack, or MHP3.5. It’s a comfortable size to hold all your everyday carry gear without feeling bulky on your body.

If you’ve been looking for a comfortable sling, you’re going to want to listen up. The back panel is amply padded for carry comfort whether it’s in sling or waist pack mode, there’s plenty of material to create a strong attachment between the pack and the carry strap, and it’s easy to adjust on the fly to find the right fit.

There’s a pass-through channel on the pack’s front that works well for a water bottle, jacket, or other medium-sized item. The secondary (rear) pocket has a vertical-style organizer with multiple pockets to ensure all your gear has a home. Moving into the main compartment, there’s ample space for a packable jacket, small water bottle, tech pouch, or other medium-to-large-sized items. For a sling bag that only touts 3.5 liters, you can fit a ton of gear inside, making it a versatile travel companion, no matter where your journey takes you!

  • The beefy harness system creates a comfortable carry in crossbody and hip pack modes
  • There’s a ton of room for storing large and small gear without throwing them all into the main compartment
  • It’s looks pretty big on your body considering for its liter size compared to other slings we’ve tested
  • Though it’s designed to be a hip pack, it works great as a sling

Don’t let a broken sling bag break your heart. Choose one that will keep up.

Finding a Dependable Sling Bag for Travel and EDC

We’re partial to small slings since they are, point blank, the best for travel. Small slings are more comfortable to carry, easier to pack inside a larger travel backpack, and will be considered a personal item on most airlines (in the States, anyway). At some size, a sling bag just becomes an uncomfortable backpack.

Different Styles of Slings

While a sling’s size is measured in liters, the liter size of a sling bag can vary from company to company. One brand’s 5 liters is another brand’s 2 liters (exasperating, right? Get it together, people!). So it’s equally important to consider the shape of the sling bag, the internal organization, and the thickness of the material—all of which will impact the amount of usable space available. Let’s break that down.

Volume & Size

We know we just said judging a sling bag by liters isn’t the most accurate way to determine volume, but it still works well as a benchmark. We recommend staying between one and eight liters and keeping the weight less than four, maybe five, pounds—this weight includes your stuff, of course. Since a sling bag wears over one shoulder, a big, heavy sling may, at best, get too uncomfortable to carry, and at worst, hurt your back. Plus, it’ll look awfully strange sitting across the chest.

NOMATIC Navigator Collapsible Sling 3L Packed 2

Some sling bags are expandable, which is excellent for travel since they’ll take up little space when not in use or when you don’t have much to carry—but you can still fill them with a decent amount of stuff when expanded. This trick works well on small sling bags but can be overkill on bigger ones, which expand to be comically bulky.

CODEOFBELL X-POD Worn with a Backpack

With an expandable main compartment, the CODEOFBELL X-Pod works equally well on days when you only need the essentials and on trips where you want everything but the kitchen sink. Plus, it never looks too bulky and manages to stay comfortable even when fully packed—an impressive feat we don’t often see.

The profile of a sling bag has a significant impact on its overall look and comfort level. Most sling bags have an oblong shape to better fit the chest and back. As we mentioned earlier, sometimes hip packs try to be sling bags—some are even successful at it—but they won’t be nearly as contoured to the chest and can hang in such a way as to look unbalanced.

With sling bags, you’ll usually find one of two orientations: tall or wide. They’re both equally great options that work better or worse for different use-cases and style preferences.

Topo Designs Mini Shoulder Bag Walking Back

Tall sling bags are just that—tall—and wear more like a purse or mini-backpack. As you would expect, they work well for things that you want to pack vertically, say a phone case with bunny ears. Tall sling bags aren’t usually tight against the body, nor can they only be worn on your back.

Topo Designs Mini Shoulder Bag Review

This sling bag can be carried crossbody or as a hip pack with the same strap. Whichever you choose, the horseshoe zipper makes it easy to get to your gear, and the vertical orientation allows you to get a decent look inside the bag and squeeze in your hand without too much trouble.

Chrome Industries Kadet Nylon Messenger Bag

If you want to look like you don’t know how to wear a fanny pack correctly, then a wide sling may be your style of choice. That’s to say, they are more closely related to the fanny pack in the looks department, for better or worse, and usually sit tightly against the body.

Chrome Industries Mini Kadet | Using the sling bag in Detroit

Chrome Industries prides itself on its unique, recognizable designs. And this sling bag is definitely unique. Its oblong shape is reminiscent of the typical fanny pack, but its larger size, seat belt buckle, and stiff shape are all its own. It can overwhelm smaller frames—particularly when full—but it’ll hold all of the essentials and then some.

Weather Resistance

You’ll likely carry important gear in your sling bag such as your cell phone, money, and passport. Unless you’ve got special powers that allow you to avoid rain and snow indefinitely, a bit of weather resistance is a major plus, as it will protect those essential items from damage. Plus, a weather-resistant sling can be wiped down quickly, meaning you won’t have to wear a sopping wet bag against your chest—not a fun experience.

On the other hand, too much weatherproofing is overkill. Full-blown waterproof or super weather-resistant materials are built for just that—resisting water. Generally speaking, they’re not going to hold up to everyday use as well as other fabrics (more on that below), and they may not look as nice or feel as comfortable on your back/chest.

If push comes to shove and you need to protect your sling from a sudden rainstorm, they’re usually small enough to fit under a rain jacket. Just beware—people may think you are either smuggling a small animal under your coat or have a bizarrely shaped chest. (This could be a pro or con depending on your personality.)

ALPAKA Bravo Sling Max V2 Back Outdoor

A sling bag designed to carry your essential tech—small laptops included—better have some weather resistance. The ALPAKA Bravo Sling Max V2 doesn’t disappoint, with high-quality, durable fabric and weather-resistant zippers.

Sling Bag Durability & Quality

With the popularity of sling bags on an exponential rise, you’ll find sling bags ranging from ten bucks to thousands. While we don’t recommend going out and buying a sling bag that costs as much as a car (unless you have money to burn), we do recommend purchasing a sling made of durable, high-quality materials—and that may cost you more than ten bucks.

That said, the same fabric that’s ideal for a travel backpack can be a bit much on a sling bag. You have to balance durability with weight and interior capacity. When you’re looking at quality, be sure to pay attention to:

A broken zipper may lead to a broken heart while traveling. That may sound dramatic, but if you’ve ever had a zipper break on you while abroad, you’ll know exactly what we mean. We usually trust zippers from YKK, RiRi, and SAB—all of which have solid track records for making quality products, our favorite being the Japanese manufacturer, YKK. YKK zippers have rarely let us down, even when we’ve put them through the wringer over years and years of testing. They account for about half of all the zippers in the world for a reason.

YKK Zipper on the Chrome Industries Kadet Nylon Messenger Bag

Beyond the brand, it’s important to consider size, which is measured on a scale of one (small) to ten (large). While the main zippers on sling bags fall all over this spectrum, the most common sizes are #5 or #8—seriously, out of the 50 + slings we’ve tested, a very, very high majority have either #5 or #8 zippers. Anything less than a five and you’ll likely run into durability issues.

With sling bags, you also don’t need—or want—anything too beefy, like a #10 zipper. If they’re too big, the zips can jingle, which gets annoying for us around the five-minute mark. Maybe you’re more patient than we are. Larger zippers can also rub against your chest or back, which is just as uncomfortable as it sounds.

Some companies purposefully design their sling bags with oversized zippers or zipper teeth to look extra dope. If you’re into this aesthetic, you may have to get used to the jingling. Fashion is pain and all that.

Moment MTW Mini Fanny Sling 1l brand

For the zippers on internal or less-frequented pockets, you’ll be okay with a smaller size. They can also help with the aforementioned weather resistance. When looking at zippers, you may see the letters RC stamped next to the size (#5RC, #8RC, etc.). RC stands for reverse coil, a term that describes zippers with internally—rather than externally—facing teeth, which helps prevent water from percolating into the bag. But a reverse coil zipper isn’t that water-resistant. So don’t go thinking it’ll protect your phone in a monsoon.

For further protection, there are water-repellent zippers—like the YKK AquaGuard zipper—which have a thin polyurethane coating to, you know, repel water. If you’re planning on going to an unusually wet area with your sling bag, then you may want to look for this style of zipper. Otherwise, you’ll likely be fine without that extra water resistance.

Buckles are a major component of most sling bags, and if there’s no buckle, there will be some sort of clip. You don’t want the hardware to break on you because that’ll make the sling practically useless. Unless you MacGyver up a big knot, which will help with the usefulness but, let’s be real, look totally ridiculous.

Large Duraflex Buckle on the Incase Diamond Wire Reform Sling Pack

Again, the brand matters here. Some trustworthy companies are Duraflex, YKK, Woojin, and ITW. As long as you stick with them, you should be good to go. We also love metal buckles—as opposed to plastic—but when it comes to slings, they can be uncomfortable and add a good bit of weight. If durability is a priority however, metal buckles can’t be beaten.

Fabric & Material

Unlike in the 1800s—or even the mid-1900s—bag designers (engineers?) have a ton of fabrics to choose from to make their bags, all of which have pros and cons. As we’ve already mentioned, you want to balance durability with weight and capacity. A sling bag won’t have to do as much work as a travel backpack; therefore, it doesn’t have to be as tough. Some materials you may run into are:

Nylon

Ballistic Nylon

Ballistic Nylon

Ripstop Nylon

Rip-Stop Nylon

CORDURA® Grade Fabrics (Nylon & Polyester)

CORDURA® Nylon

While this isn’t a comprehensive list of all of the fabrics you’ll run into while shopping (sorry sailcloth and polypropylene) a majority of sling bags will be made with one or multiple of the materials mentioned above. But the material itself isn’t the be-all, end-all.

Usually, you’ll see a number followed by a D associated with the material—250D, 950D, 1000D, etc. The D stands for denier, which is the unit that measures the weight or thickness of fabric. In general, the higher the number, the more durable the fabric—but higher numbers also mean higher weight.

Because every fabric has its individual strengths (nylon is inherently stronger than polyester) the denier won’t help you much when comparing two different types of fabrics, or even two types of weaves within one fabric family. Instead, it helps you compare two fabrics of the same type. 500D Ballistic nylon is less durable than 1000D Ballistic nylon, for example. But the 500D Ballistic nylon will also be much lighter (about half as light, in fact!).

When it comes to sling bags, higher denier is generally better, but you start maxing out around 500D. As far as we’re concerned, any fabric over 500D is a bit overkill for a sling bag. As you get up into the 500D range, the weight of the fabric will start to become more substantial, but because sling bags are small—and thus don’t have a lot of fabric—you’ll hardly be able to notice this difference in weight. And because sling bags don’t take as much abuse as, say, a full-blown travel backpack, we don’t think the extra durability of 500D+ fabrics is necessary.

Moreover, the other aspects of a sling bag, including its zippers and hardware, also have to be high-quality. It does you no good if your ballistic nylon exterior has held up if your zippers break on week three. Best to keep everything well-rounded.

Aer City Sling 2 Review

Bordering on too durable, the Aer City Sling 2 is made of some tough stuff—1680D CORDURA® Ballistic nylon, to be precise. If you’re looking for a sling bag that will keep up while you roam the world, this one should be on your radar.

Where Fashion Meets Convenience.

Choosing the Best Sling Bag for Your Use-Case

Besides keeping you trendy, sling bags are awesome because they’re convenient. That convenience becomes obsolete if it’s uncomfortable, hard to access, or doesn’t properly fit your use-case. Here are some things to keep in mind when you’re considering investing in your soon-to-be favorite new accessory.

Sling bag straps are generally made of nylon webbing, but all vary in length and width. Smaller sling bags tend to have thin straps, while heavier backpack-style slings tend to have thick straps. Pretty straightforward so far. But length and width aren’t the only elements you need to pay attention to.

First of all, let’s talk about padding. Some sling bags have zero padding, while others are nearly as padded as the resume of a recent college grad. Padded straps are usually—but not always—found on bigger sling bags to help make carrying that much weight more comfortable.

As a general rule, we’re not too keen on thick, padded straps. They tend to give you awkward sweaty patches and can only help so much with comfort. As we already mentioned, once you reach a certain size of sling bag they become uncomfortable to carry regardless of how fancy the strap. Not to mention, bigger straps weigh more.

Moment Rugged Camera Sling 6L Shoulder Strap

We’re fans of thinner straps or ones that are somewhere in the middle of the padding spectrum. We’re especially happy when straps are designed in such a way that they’re thicker or more padded only on those places where it’ll touch your body. That way, the sling isn’t bogged down by over-specced straps as far as design and weight are concerned.

Osprey Daylite Sling Review

The Osprey Daylite Sling knows that it’s a sling bag—meaning the strap has enough padding to make the carry comfortable, but nothing overboard. The padding is soft and kind to clothing, though it can get sweaty on long excursions. There’s also a small mesh pocket on the strap for items you want to access quickly and a nylon loop for attaching water bottles.

Tom Bihn Side Effect

Additionally, some sling bags have detachable straps, allowing you to transform the bag into an organizer pouch for toiletries, electronics, your sticker collection, or whatever else you need to organize. We’re always fans of traveling with items that serve more than one purpose to save space and weight. A pouch/sling bag combo is one great way to do that, and detachable straps are virtually identical to non-detachable straps—so there aren’t really any downsides. These are particularly great for one bag travel, as you can use the pouch as a packing cube/organizer in your larger backpack and then take it out and throw a strap on for your flight or a day out.

TOM BIHN Bantam Review

Because the straps of this sling easily detach, it doubles as a pouch. Throw in some toiletries or tech and leave it in your travel backpack. Then, when you arrive and it’s time to explore a new city, reattach the straps and use it for all your everyday carry essentials. It’s a win-win-win.

Types of Sling Straps

The straps on sling bags have a major influence on the style of the bag. It would be like if the only difference between a backpack and a duffel is the strap. So, let’s check out the various strap styles you’re likely to run into.

The Traditional Strap

The Traditional Strap Example

You’ll likely see traditional sling bag straps when you hit the trails. Major outdoor brands like Patagonia and Osprey sell these kinds of slings, which have a single, thick strap that looks like one you’d find on a backpack, but sits on one shoulder and lies asymmetrically across the chest.

A sling bag with a traditional style of strap is designed to be worn across your back and can’t be worn on your chest or hips. Unfortunately, most of these straps are designed to be worn across the same shoulder every time. That means the carry can become uncomfortable on long excursions, dumping all the weight of the bag onto one side. But they’re nice for quick jaunts since the strap stays in place—even as you bounce along a trail.

KAVU Rope Sling in Detroit

The Kavu Rope Sling has an outdoorsy look and a handful of organization for ultimate comfort on the trails. Keep bigger gear close at hand, though it does take a little practice to get the packing strategy right.

The New Wave Strap

The New Wave Strap Example

New wave sling bag straps are usually simple, thin, and attach to the body of the sling bag at the edges width-wise (new wave straps go hand-in-hand with wide sling bags). And they’re designed to be worn both on the chest or back. We’ve coined them “new wave” because these straps are the ones that catapulted sling bags into being a mainstream fashion accessory. They’re truly the “new wave” of sling bags (aren’t we clever?).

The way the straps are anchored to the bag and the way the buckles buckle make it so most new wave straps can’t be worn comfortably on the hips. Sure, with some combination of magic, innovation, and true grit, you could probably force a few of them to sit on your hips, but that’s not what they’ve been engineered to do.

Tortuga Travel Sling Review

The Tortuga Travel Sling looks like it’s more versatile than it is. While it looks like you could sling it around your hips, the straps are anchored in such a way that it can only be worn successfully on the chest or back. Even without the ability to wear the sling as a hip pack, it’s one of the best slings for travel due to its small size, internal organization, and low weight.

The Hip Pack-Style Strap

The Hip Pack-Style Strap Example

Listen up—because this part is kind of tricky. At first glance, the hip pack-style strap will look eerily similar to the new wave style of strap. The main difference is that the hip pack style of strap can be worn slung around the hips (as well as across the chest). They’re the most versatile in terms of function, but they also scream “fanny pack.” So much so, your dad may ask you why you busted out his old fanny pack and are now wearing it incorrectly. (Obviously, he just doesn’t understand fashion.)

lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag Review

Small and lightweight, lululemon advertises the Everywhere Belt Bag as a fanny pack, but we think it makes a comfortable sling bag too. Mainly because the strap is wider than it needs to be and the buckle is off-center to make it easier to reach. Whichever way you wear it, the bag also has some mesh pockets and a rear security pocket, making it ideal for festivals and travel alike.

The Crossbody Strap

The Crossbody Strap Example

This style of strap is a long piece of webbing that can sit crossbody or be thrown over one shoulder. It’s similar to a purse strap, although usually thinner and without any decorative elements.

Fjallraven Greenland Pocket Access

The Fjallraven Greenland Pocket has a thin crossbody strap that’s super simple to tighten or loosen—so you can wear it close to your chest or let it hang, depending on where you’re traveling and your mood. But the strap is rough and may damage more delicate items of clothing.

The Lefty Strap

The Lefty Strap Example

Lefties make up only 10% of the population and thus can be ignored by companies who’d rather reach the majority of consumers (sorry, lefties. The truth hurts).

Sometimes, we’ve found that it’s easier to adapt to the right-handed world and use sling bags designed for right-handers. That said, there are a few sling bags that may work better for those of you who are aware that left-handed scissors exist.

These lefty-inclusive sling bags have straps that can be anchored on either side of the bag, allowing you to wear it across whichever shoulder you’d like. That way, if you’re left-handed, you can wear it on your left shoulder, so when you “sling” the bag forward, your left hand is ready to work the zippers.

But, these straps don’t always mean a sling is ideal for lefties. Pocket orientation matters, too. It won’t do you any good to wear the sling on your left shoulder if all the pockets will be facing the ground. There are some sling bags out there with either symmetrical pockets or pockets for lefties.

Thoughts on Buckles

We’ve talked about buckles before, but they’re worth mentioning a second time. They contribute to the look, feel, function, and style of a sling bag nearly as much as the straps do.

The first question worth asking is, “Where is the buckle located?”

If the buckle is centered, that means the sling bag can almost always be worn on either shoulder or around the hips. But a centered buckle isn’t ideal if you’re planning on wearing your sling bag with a backpack. The backpack’s weight can cause the sling’s buckle to dig into your back (ouch), and you won’t be able to easily detach it without first taking off your backpack.

Bellroy Lite Sling Mini Outdoor Solo

If the buckle is off-center (usually on the right side), the sling bag works best on one shoulder. Meaning you won’t be able to switch between the two if one ever gets tired. In some cases, you can technically wear it on whatever shoulder you want, but it will likely sit uncomfortably on one side, or the buckle will end up in an awkward place that’s hard to access with your dominant hand (sorry lefties, this one will impact you more often).

You should also pay attention to the size of the buckle. The larger it gets, the more uncomfortable it’ll wear. But that’s not always a dealbreaker. Larger buckles can look pretty damn fly, they’ll last longer, and they’re usually easier to clip/unclip for people who can’t be bothered with slow buckles.

Finally, you’ll want to ask yourself if you plan to wear your sling bag as a hip pack every once and a while. Some buckles don’t allow for this dual functionality.

Trakke Largo Sling Front 2

The stainless steel buckles on the Trakke Largo Sling could be considered slightly over-specced for a bag this small, but we’re not complaining. These buckles are ultra-durable, they allow you to wear the sling bag comfortably as a hip pack, and they let you wear it over either shoulder (lefties, that one’s for you!). Plus, it’s a fresh look that helps give this sling its heritage vibe.

Thoughts on Back Panels

Whether or not you should care about the back panel on a sling bag depends on how it fits your body. Boxier sling bags wear more like a purse or messenger bag, so you won’t want or need anything fancy. You can run into trouble, however, with sling bags that hug the body. These can leave awkward sweat patches and rub against your clothing, causing pilling.

Back panel of Patagonia Atom Sling

To help alleviate those issues, some sling bags come equipped with mesh back panels, most commonly found on outdoor-oriented or backpack-style sling bags.

Some sling bags don’t have that fancy mesh but do have a bit of cushioning or padding for added comfort. Usually, the padding makes for a more comfortable carry but can exacerbate the sweat problem.

And some sling bags, especially the smaller ones, have neither mesh nor padding. We’re alright with that—as long as the bag is truly on the smaller end.

Hydro Flask Slingback Bottle Pack Review

Typical for Hydro Flask, the Slingback Bottle Pack has been designed to shine in the great outdoors. You’ll find soft, padded, and breathable mesh on both the back panel and shoulder strap. If you’re anything like us, you’ll still get sweaty on your way to the peak, but it has better airflow than many slings out there (especially for its size).

Thoughts on Organization

In our years of testing gear, we’ve come to realize that organization is one of those things that’s very personal. Some people like bags with large, empty compartments while others are offended when there’s not a spot for each one of their fancy pens.

You can find sling bags all along that spectrum. Some are basically exterior pockets with zero organization, while others have pockets on pockets on pockets. Again, what’s best for you depends on your use-case and what you’re going to be carrying.

Timbuk2 Vapor Sling Crossbody Bag Nintendo Switch

Lots of smaller items? You’ll probably want those organized. A few bigger things? Too much organization could annoy you. For most people, you’ll want something in the middle. We love a main compartment with two to three interior pockets and an additional front or back pocket. But, again, think through your situation.

One great feature to look for is a hidden pocket, which will usually sit on the side of the sling bag that’s against your body. This pocket is the ideal place to stash essential items like your passport, credit cards, or cash.

Minaal Crossbody Bag On Back

This Minaal sling has several pockets of varying sizes, so you’ll find a spot for everything—a passport, travel sunglasses, a battery bank, wallet, snacks, you name it. There’s even a security pocket for hiding cash and cards!

Specialist Sling Bags

Most sling bags fall into the travel/outdoors/EDC realm, but some have dared to be different. These specialist sling bags to work for very specific use cases (hence the whole “specialist” thing). We’ll briefly run through these sling bags here, so you’re not caught off-guard if you ever encounter one in the wild.

Secure Sling Bags

Chances are you’re going to be carrying some pretty important stuff in your sling bag—and this time, we’re not talking about snacks. We mean things like your passport, keys, and cash. While we do think some common sense can go a long way towards keeping your valuables safe on the road, we get that security features can help with overall peace of mind. Secure sling bags will likely have a number of features to prevent thieves from gaining quick access, including lockable zippers, hidden or lockable buckles, slash-proof straps, tear-proof fabrics, and RFID-blocking technology.

Pacsafe Vibe 325 Anti-Theft Sling Pack Zipper

The trade-off here is that most secure sling bags look like secure sling bags. They also weigh more than their less safe counterparts, and they won’t be quite as accessible. Still, peace of mind is peace of mind.

Pacsafe Vibe 325 Anti-Theft Sling Pack Review

The Pacsafe Vibe 325 Anti-Theft Sling Pack is a tough sling that’s slash-proof, RFID-blocking, and lockable. The strap feels a bit bulky, but it’ll give you peace of mind that your stuff will be safe on the road.

Camera Sling Bags

When you want to snap pictures of your epic adventures but don’t plan on lugging around a full camera kit with different lenses and battery packs, a camera sling bag could be your new best friend. These allow you to carry a good amount of camera accessories without having to be worn down by an entire backpack. If you’re partial to point and shoot cameras, you can probably stick with any old sling bag, though camera-focused gear never hurts.

Peak Design Everyday Sling

Camera sling bags usually have soft internal padding, durable and weather-resistant external materials, some adjustable inserts/dividers, and lots of organization. Some even have multiple access points. Plus, they’re still sling bags, so getting to your gear is quick and easy. Sling the sling to your chest, zip it open, grab your camera, and you’re good to go.

Camera sling bags vary wildly in size with some being as large as a backpack. At that point, we’d recommend just wearing a backpack for better weight distribution. Seriously, a heavy camera sling bag gets uncomfortable and bulky fast.

Peak Design Everyday Sling 6L

The Peak Design Everyday Sling is a versatile, durable bag that will keep your camera and accessories safe and organized while you roam the world. Its FlexFold dividers allow you to customize the interior to suit your needs. We think it’s just the right size, allowing you to carry a good amount of gear without weighing you down.

Don’t judge a sling bag by its cover. Wait, no, do. Definitely judge a sling bag by its cover.

Navigating the Complex World of Sling Bag Styles

If you decide to wear a sling bag, even if it’s only for convenience, you’re making a fashion statement. What kind of fashion statement is up to you. If you’re going to a festival, you might want something flashy and trendy. If you’re using it for day trips abroad, you probably want something that doesn’t scream tourist. If you’re Paris Hilton, you probably want to opt for something fabulous and expensive. No matter who you are, we’ve found five common styles to look out for.

The Fanny Pack Look-Alike

Fanny Pack Look Alike Sling Style

By now, you hopefully understand that a sling bag is not the same thing as a hip pack. But they do share some of the same DNA. Sometimes, you’ll find a sling bag that looks identical to a hip pack with an oblong shape, simple strap, and centered buckle.

In some cases, this is purely a fashion statement, but we love this style of sling bag for travel since it tends to be the perfect size for essentials and won’t take up too much space in your pack when not in use. Plus, it can be worn with a backpack. Win, win, win.

  • Heimplanet Transit Line Sling Pocket
  • Trakke Banana Crossbody Bag
  • lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag
  • Bellroy Sling Mini
  • ALPAKA Bravo Sling Mini

Outdoorsy & Athletic

Outdoorsy and Athletic Sling Style

The outdoorsy sling bag looks like it wants to be a backpack, but hasn’t eaten quite enough vegetables. It tends to be bigger than other sling bag styles and can only be worn on the back. Sporty and colorful, these sling bags have tourist written all over them. So unless you want to stand out, you probably won’t want to take one with you on your epic tour of the world’s cities. But with comfortable straps and back panels, they’re nice for short hikes and outdoor excursions.

  • Osprey Daylite Shoulder Sling
  • Patagonia Atom Sling
  • Cotopaxi Chasqui 13L Sling (Cada Dia)
  • The North Face Field Bag
  • KAVU Rope Sling

Crossbody (The Purse or Murse)

Crossbody Sling Style

Crossbody sling bags are the reason some people say sling bags are purses for men who are embarrassed to say they own a purse. It has a similar aesthetic to a purse, but with a longer strap and smaller body. They tend to have a more vertical orientation as well. We think crossbody slings work well for travel, although since they don’t sit as close to the body as other sling bags, may not feel as secure in a bustling metropolis or busy market.

  • Topo Designs Mini Shoulder Bag
  • Fjallraven Greenland Pocket
  • Tom Bihn Small Cafe Bag
  • Bellroy Lite Sacoche

Tactical Sling Style

While there are some sling bags out there that are seriously tactical (think Apocalypse ready), others just look tactical. While the former is probably better suited for outdoorsy things, the latter can be great for travel. Usually made of high-quality stuff, these bags are ready for whatever you throw at them.

  • NITECORE SLB05
  • 5.11 RUSH MOAB 6 Sling Pack
  • Red Rock Rover Sling Pack

Fashion Sling Style

While Louis Vuitton and Prada sling bags fall under the fashion category, you don’t have to break the bank here (unless you want to, of course). Fashion sling bags are designed to impress with sleek zippers, unique straps, or other sophisticated design elements. Sometimes, although not always, this trendiness comes at a price—and that price is lower durability. That’s fine if your use-case is pretty low-impact, but if you’re planning to use your sling bag time and again while traveling the world, you may want to opt for another style.

  • Bellroy City Pouch
  • The North Face Isabella Hip Pack

It’s time to spread your wings and…choose a sling bag you’ll love! It’s as easy as one, two, three.

Forget the Best Sling Bag For Travel. Find the Best Sling Bag for YOU!

We would’ve loved to end this guide with “all that said, the best sling bag for travel is…” because, let’s be real, that would save us all a lot of time and effort. Unfortunately, there is no such thing as the best sling bag for travel. There is only the best sling bag for you . So, let’s review how you can choose a sling bag you’ll fall in love with. To make things extra easy, we’ve broken it up into three steps:

1. Decide Why You Want a Sling Bag

Planning on rocking your sling during Milan’s Fashion Week? Opt for a designer sling made with less durable materials. Planning on backpacking Southeast Asia for three years? You might want a sling that’ll last the entirety of the trip. Different sling bags are better or worse for different situations, so make sure to think through when you’ll be using your sling bag and for what. And make sure to consider every use-case—perhaps you’ll be visiting fashion week then backpacking through Thailand. Pick your sling bag accordingly.

2. Assess Quality & Function

Take a look at the elements of a sling bag and the quality of materials. Unless you get joy out of throwing things away, you’ll probably want a sling bag that’s going to last you a little while. Pay close attention to the sling bag’s fabric, zippers, buckles, and straps. An easy tip for assessing overall quality is to take a look at the company’s warranty. If a company is willing to stand behind its products and offer a meaty warranty, then you should be able to trust whatever they’re selling.

3. Choose Your Favorite Style

A sling bag is an accessory. A useful accessory, but an accessory nonetheless. So make sure you love how it looks. In the end, if you’re repulsed by how hideous your new sling bag is, it doesn’t matter that it’ll last you until 2075.

Alright! You’ve made it to the end, folks. You may have thought that a sling bag was only a fun twist on a resurgent trend from the ‘90s, but now you know it’s so much more. We deem thee an official sling bag expert.

Good luck with all your slinging adventures—and make sure to share any other sling bag tips you’ve learned with us and the rest of the Pack Hacker community.

P.S. If you want more, check out all of our gear reviews . We’re always testing and reviewing new sling bags, plus a bunch of other super dope stuff.

mm

Author: Tom Wahlin

Tom has lived out of a 40L backpack for 2 years of travel, helping him learn what to pack and what to leave behind. His top achievements include designing for Apple and eating large quantities of ramen (ongoing).

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The 17 Best Travel Sling Bags for Your Next Adventure – Ranked!

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Sling bags are one of the most convenient ways to carry travel gear away from home. The sling design makes taking the bag on and off easier, especially compared to a traditional backpack. The single strap over the shoulder lets you carry a bag on either side of your body, and reducing the number of straps required to carry the same amount of gear tends to make things more lightweight.

With a travel sling bag, you can carry a bag at your front or back, depending on the situation. Back carry adds excellent stability, while carrying at the front lets you access your gear quickly, which is great if you carry a camera or other essential gear daily. While you can carry a backpack like a sling by only shouldering one of the straps, you’ll quickly find that to be highly uncomfortable and unbalanced compared to a sling. Some sling bags have even better padding than a traditional backpack, so they can be loaded to your heart’s content with no problem. And unlike a briefcase or duffel bag, the longer strap is more comfortable for longer trips.

Like other everyday carry travel bags, there’s a wide variety of sling bag designs. They span the entire range from small personal bags that augment your other travel bags of choice to large and thoughtfully designed sling bags that can be your one-bag solution when you’re headed out the door.

Our Top Picks

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Our Top Picks for Travel Sling Bags in 2024

zara travel sling bag

The Best Overall Travel Sling: Mission Workshop Rummy AP

With a generous 27L capacity, room for up to a 17” laptop, and a thoughtful, travel-friendly design, the Mission Workshop Rummy is my pick for the best overall travel sling. The Rummy features Mission Workshop’s patented Arkiv closure system, which uses a unique slotted pairing of metal hardware and cloth to ensure the bag doesn’t open in the wind and rain while remaining easy to open and close when needed. The weather resistance is further enhanced because the Rummy is available in HT500 technical fabric and ultra-durable 10 oz American Waxed Canvas. The material design gives you the confidence to load the Rummy with your tech and travel essentials on your back wherever you go.

Check It Out

zara travel sling bag

The Best Budget Travel Sling: tomtoc Navigator-T24

The tomtoc Navigator-T24 provides a slim, sleek, streamlined design with much padding for your work laptop or tablet. Its 7L capacity gives a lot of internal organization space to help keep small daily essentials like pens and pencils from tumbling around in your closed pack as you go about your day. Its crossbody design supports left and right-handed carry, requiring only swapping the sling from one D-ring buckle on the side of the pack to the other. And the premium YKK zippers and Duraflex buckles used also provide a long-lasting usage lifespan. With the Navigator-T24, you get a lot of bang for your buck, and because you can pick up this pack right now for just over $50 at the time of this writing, it earns my pick for the best budget travel sling.

zara travel sling bag

The Best Water-Repellant Travel Sling: 1733 VX21 Side Pack

Regarding water repellency, few things beat sailcloth, and the 1733 VX21 Side Pack sling features this in spades. VX21 X-Pac is an American-made laminated synthetic fabric with a diamond ripstop layer and integrated waterproofing that makes bags featuring this material shed rain. The material is also immensely lightweight, especially compared to higher denier fabrics that still require a DWR layer on top of it to get close to the same amount of weatherproof performance. As for the design of the Side Pack, 1733 has reimagined the fanny pack with a cross-shoulder design that’s also highly modular. The best part is that shops with extensive experience and attention to detail stitch each bag in the United States. The Side Pack features MOLLE/PALS compatible webbing and an elastic rope lid to augment the pack. There’s enough room inside to fit a mirrorless camera and other small essentials, all secured with rugged YKK Aquaguard zippers.

zara travel sling bag

The Best Large Travel Sling: GREENROOM136 JunkMonkey

The JunkMonkey is a Malaysian design from GREENROOM136, and it features a bombproof 1000D CORDURA nylon fabric for the bag’s exterior and 420D polyurethane-coated ripstop nylon fabric for the interior. These protect 19L of space inside for your tech, travel, and everyday essential needs. One of the most unique things about this bag is the internal ripstop lining that increases its weather resistance and allows you to slightly overpack the bag while keeping it close to your back. That ripstop lining is high-visibility yellow, making it easier to identify the gear you need inside the bag, which can support up to a 15” Apple MacBook Pro or similar laptop. Because you can pack this bag full to the brim and do it comfortably with its winged back harness and stabilizer strap, the GREENROOM136 JunkMonkey is my pick for the best large travel sling.

zara travel sling bag

The Best Lightweight Travel Sling: Alpaka Flight Sling

The Alpaka Flight Sling is a slim travel bag that’s useful for carrying your passport, boarding pass, and other small travel essentials close to your person at all times. You can use it to augment your travel space on a plane that limits the number of bags you can have in the cabin since you can tuck it under clothing once you clear security. The 210/200D ripstop construction of the bag, combined with the YKK Aquaguard zippers, helps it keep the elements out when worn externally when you’re out and about at your final destination. The bag’s immense practicality and traveling versatility make it my pick for the best lightweight travel sling.

Our other recommendations

zara travel sling bag

Manhattan Portage Atlas Sling Pro: Our co-founder Bernard spent over a year designing this sling with Manhattan Portage. The bullet profile fits up to an 11″ tablet (one of the few slings able to accommodate the size) and all your gear while remaining narrow and nimble while commuting through crowds. It sits centered on the back and has fantastic modularity and organizational space.

Aer Day Sling 3 Max X-Pac: Using X-Pac fabric allows Aer to provide substantial padding and protection for tablets up to 11” without bringing the weight of the overall bag up too much. The high-visibility interior also makes it easy to rapidly access your notes and other small gear essentials at the office or on the go.

Bellroy Venture Sling Camera Edition: This bag is suitable for short photo trips with room for a small mirrorless or compact camera and lots of tech organizer space. It can also be used as a travel bag, with all your camera gear ready to go once you’re where you need to be.

Peak Design Everyday Sling 10L: The seatbelt fabric design of the strap, quick adjustability, and hinged attachment make this one of the most comfortable slings you can carry, even if you don’t tote around cameras regularly. Peak Design’s lifetime warranty is also hard to beat, making this bag a buy-it-for-life deal you won’t regret.

Trakke Largo Sling: The Trakke Largo Sling takes quick access to the extreme, with two large zippered compartments and organizational space that make retrieving your everyday carry gear easy. The COBRA buckle strap is also quicker than a standard buckle, and its reversibility adds to the Trakke Largo’s ambidextrous appeal.

WNDRD Rogue 9L Sling: With its 1680D and 840D ballistic nylon with 5PM coating, the WNDRD Rogue 9L is one of the most heavy-duty and water-resistant sling bags you can carry. The internal dividers and tripod holder make the Rogue great for dedicated photography carry, but you’ll also appreciate the added padding if you carry tech essentials.

Mystery Ranch Hip Monkey Sling Bag: The Hip Monkey fits more of a traditional fanny pack style, but the wide strap makes it comfortable to wear as a sling. The bag fits a professional-sized mirrorless camera and lens with room to spare. If you find yourself in Japan, there’s an exclusive version of this pack using X-Pac fabric, and that is my current daily driver for 1.5-bag travel.

EVERGOODS Mountain Hip Pack: While the EVERGOODS Mountain Hip Pack is best carried ergonomically behind you at your lumbar region, the body-hugging design of the pack lets it work well slung over your shoulder, too. Its name denotes its intended use, and the breathable back panel on the Mountain Hip Pack deals with sweat and outdoor exertions better than standard spacer mesh on other bags.

North St. Bags Pioneer 12 Hip Pack: The Pioneer 12 is a versatile hip-pack sling that can also be used as a handlebar bag if you have a bicycle. It’s also made in the United States in Portland, Oregon, and North St. Bags guarantees it for life.

Wizard Works Hobgob Hip Pack: Wizard Works designed the Hobgob to minimize sharp edges and plastic hardware from rubbing against you while you wear it, making it comfortable for long-term use. Unlike many sling bags, you can add their Quick Draw Bottle Pocket to stay hydrated throughout the day.

DSPTCH Slingpack RND Dyneema: The technical construction of the DSPTCH Slingpack RND Dyneema makes it lightweight for its 15L capacity at 1lb 14oz. A hidden security pocket also serves as an excellent place to carry items you cannot lose, like your passport, when you’re out of the country.

Osprey Metron: The Osprey Metron was designed as a bike messenger sling bag, and it has lots of storage for laptops, tablets, parcels, and essential documents. The flap cover is also secured with buckles and hook and loop, making it highly unlikely that anything flies out of your sling when you’re screaming down a hill on a bike.

Features to Keep in Mind When Shopping for Travel Sling Bags

The plethora of choices for travel sling bags can make it intimidating if you’re looking for your first bag, but a few considerations should always come into mind when making your choice. These boil down to a few things: the material your bag is made of, the size and capacity of the bag itself, how comfortable it is to carry daily, and any special features any particular design might have compared to the rest.

The material in your travel sling bag is essential because it impacts the durability of your bag and more. Picking a sling bag made out of flimsy material means it will break easily. If weight is an issue, you can choose a bag made out of ripstop nylon, sailcloth, or Dyneema Composite Fabric to maintain a good level of durability while being less hefty than traditional materials like waxed canvas or leather. If you’re looking for absolute bombproof construction, high-denier ballistic nylon is your best choice.

The size of your travel sling bag is essential because it marks the limit of the gear you can pack. However, travel limitations also dictate the size of the bag you pick. Depending on the airline or railroad restrictions of your choice, you may have to limit based on a personal bag or carry-on size compatibility.

Comfort is sometimes underrated when picking a travel sling bag, but it’s critical because a poorly designed sling bag will be more uncomfortable to carry compared to a backpack that might be designed sub-optimally. The single strap design can bite into your neck or shoulder if it’s not done well, and that’s why picking a bag with a good strap and enough padding to make it comfortable is essential. Some sling bags further augment the equation by adding stabilizer straps and ambidextrous options that make switching between left-handed and right-handed carry easy based on the load and travel.

The features emphasized in each travel sling bag should correspond to your travel needs. You may value padded dividers and laptop sleeves if you carry a laptop, tablet, or expensive camera gear. People with lots of stationery in their everyday carry will value dedicated organizational space. If you live or travel to places that rain or snow a lot, waterproof materials and quality zippers like those from YKK come into play. You choose the most important features to you, and sometimes that may mean picking more than one travel sling bag for different situations at different times.

Best Travel Sling Bag FAQs

Are sling bags good for travel.

Sling bags are great for travel because they are easier to carry than a backpack or tote bag. Sloping a bag across your shoulder on either side makes it easy to get through crowded bus terminals and get to where you need to go without hassle.

Is a sling bag considered a carry-on?

A sling bag can be considered a carry-on bag if it meets your airline’s size requirements. However, most sling bags on the market are substantially smaller than the carry-on size limit because sling bags that are too big can become very uncomfortable to carry long term.

What is the difference between a sling bag and a crossbody bag?

There is a bit of interchangeability between a sling bag and a crossbody bag. However, some are dedicated crossbody bags that only make sense to carry across your body. A sling bag is versatile enough to be carried in several ways that are not just across your body.

Is a sling bag the same as a fanny pack?

Some sling bags can be used as a fanny pack. Some fanny packs can be deliberately carried as a sling bag through modification or sheer determination. It depends on the bag and the user whether a fanny pack can make for a good sling bag.

How we picked

Decades of experience and deep connections in the everyday carry industry give us a unique viewpoint on the market to inform our product recommendations. We have the depth of information for thousands of products that have come before and an extensive eye on the market to see what’s new and trending for each piece of gear. The result is a buying guide that we feel is informative and useful for EDCers of every trade, industry, and budget.

What is Everyday Carry?

Everyday Carry is both the concept of what people carry in their pockets and the process of picking out gear that thoughtfully considers what one wants or needs in their daily life. It encompasses everything from style to preparedness to utility, meaning an entire industry full of valuable tools and essentials to choose from.

Why you should trust us

Our team has decades of combined experience in all aspects of everyday men’s essentials, from wallets to pens to bags and everything in between, and we know where to find great gear ideas that you may not come across at your local stores or when shopping online. Our expertise in the industry and familiarity with design, materials, and usability help you make more informed choices when it comes to picking up your next piece of gear.

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The Only Zara Handbags Worth Buying, According to Fashion Editors

Zara has long been a favourite of fashion editors. It's widely considered a trusty destination for affordable but expensive-looking items that emulate designer currents, and it's rare for a season to go by without at least a few note-worthy pieces making it onto our edit team's wish lists.

Not only does this popular high-street brand consistently back the biggest trends (in many cases with a fresh spin), but it releases a steady stream of classic buys that feel like they'll last long into the future. What's one of the wardrobe heroes we know we can always find at Zara? Handbags .

That said, there are things to keep in mind when making your next bag purchase there. We're talking about a high-street store , so even the most premium items may not quite match up to the longevity that you get with a heritage luxury brand. For example, cheap chains can let down an otherwise impressive design, or a slightly too shiny finish can give away the price point. But, not everyone has the budget for a £2000 tote, so here, our editors are breaking down exactly what they look for when perusing the accessories selection and sharing the best Zara handbags right now. Hopefully, it will lead you to make informed decisions for affordable bags that last.

Hannah Almassi, Editor in Chief

"I probably wouldn't buy my everyday tote at Zara—I need something really sturdy that's going to last a long, long time and a whole barrage of battering! But I would consider smaller options that don't need to hold everything but the kitchen sink. Additionally, I'd prioritise anything made of real leather."

Zara + Minimalist Shoulder Bag With Flap

"Black shoulder bags like this one are everywhere right now—this one has a subtle noughties feel while remaining classic."

Zara + Crossbody Bag With Buckle

"The brushed metal makes this bag feel more expensive than it is."

Zara + Leather Shoulder Bag

"If you're on the hunt for a timeless, everyday leather bag, your search is over."

Zara + Leather Crossbody Bag

"It's the top-stitching and canvas interior that makes this look even more expensive."

Zara + Narciso Rodriguez Leather Bag

"The simplicity of this bag makes it look so much more premium than if it were draped in chains and buckles."

Zara + Minimalist Shoulder Bag

"Thanks to the panelling, unusual forest-green colour, simple shape and shiny finish, this has all the hallmarks of a far more expensive design."

Maxine Eggenberger, Acting Assistant Editor

"Zara is one of my favourite places to buy handbags on the high street. While it often pulls inspiration from the runway, I think its best are always simpler, more timeless, and more versatile. Its faux leather is so good that sometimes I can't tell it apart from the real deal. In terms of colour, I like to stick to neutrals and blacks, which help make the bags look more expensive. Though I might toy with a burgundy or forest green every now and then, too."

Zara + Crossbody Bag with Buckle

"A lot of high-street chains on handbags look cheap, so I tend to avoid these sorts of styles and instead favour minimal, brushed-gold metal hardware."

Zara + Leather Crossbody Bag

"Zara loves embellishment—leather corsages, anyone?—but I lean towards cleaner, minimalistic styles that look more timeless."

Zara + Oval Crossbody Bag

"I was in my local Zara store the other day and found a gorgeous handbag in a silhouette I'd been looking for, only the faux leather was extremely matte, which made it look so much cheaper than it was. So a focus on fabrication and its execution is key."

Remy Farrell, Shopping Editor

"I couldn't tell you the last time I used an envelope clutch. Something about the style just feels a little bit dated. For eveningwear, I much prefer mini top-handle bags and sparkly or chain-mail pouches. But for the everyday, Zara has nailed the leather bucket bag. It's my go-to for all of my essentials."

Zara + Shoulder Bag With Metallic Mesh

"Chain-mail bags are an easy way to inject the metallic trend into your evening looks."

Zara + Fabric Crossbody Bag

"Strong Chloé vibes, but for a fraction of the price."

Zara + Shiny Shoulder Bag

"Sling this sparkly accessory over your shoulder next time you go out out."

Poppy Nash, Managing Editor

"I'm obsessed with Zara's party-bag offering. Every year, it amps up the game, and this year is no exception. There's always a great selection of bright, colourful clutches, which I love because my festive-season wardrobe often relies on LBDs or black jeans and a black top. Plus, the store's fun sequin styles that add a playful touch to any look.”

Zara + Shimmery Mini City Bag

"Barbiecore isn't going anywhere."

Zara + Pearl Bead Mini Bucket Bag

"This bag was an instant hit last year, so it makes sense the brand has released it again this year." 

Zara + Fringed Beaded Bag

"I'm into the idea of creating a colour-clash outfit with this bedazzled bag, styling it alongside bright pink or emerald green."

Zara + Beaded Mini Bag

"Sparkly yet understated, this is a great going-out bag."

Up Next:  I'm a Fashion Expert—Here Are 30 Elevated Pieces Worth Buying This Autumn

Bébhinn Campbell is an Edinburgh-based fashion and lifestyle writer and editor. She started her first blog at age 14 and went on to intern at print and digital publications in Berlin and London, including Dazed & Confused and Indie magazine.

A job at a fashion startup took Bébhinn from Ireland to Scotland in 2019, where she now works as a freelance journalist and copywriter covering everything from travel and interiors to styling advice. As a contributor to Who What Wear, Bébhinn always keeps her eyes peeled for emerging trends and looks worth writing about. She prides herself on her ability to cut through the noise and identify solid investment buys, exciting new brands and fresh takes on classic design.

In her spare time, Bébhinn enjoys perusing Edinburgh’s best vintage shops, working through her out-of-control book collection and watching dog reels on Instagram.

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zara travel sling bag

The 15 Best Sling Bags for Men, Tested by Style and Gear Experts

Functional, comfortable, and cool—need we say more?

best sling bags for men

Our product picks are editor-tested, expert-approved. We may earn a commission through links on our site. Why Trust Us?

If you’re wondering which sling bag to invest in, keep in mind that the best sling bags for men should offer ample storage space to stash your essentials like smartphones, wallets , keys, or even a compact tablet. To add, the best sling bags for men need to boast multiple compartments and pockets, in and out, to help you stay organized and easily access your belongings. Just as important, the best sling bags for men need to have optimal weight distribution and an adjustable strap to make carrying them feel pleasant.

The Renew Transit Fanny Pack

Best everyday sling bag

Everlane the renew transit fanny pack.

Crossbody Sling Bag

Best affordable sling bag

Waterfly crossbody sling bag.

Mini Quick Pack

Best small sling bag

Topo designs mini quick pack.

Lite Sling

Best lightweight sling bag

Bellroy lite sling.

Clean Lines Belt Bag

Most versatile sling bag

Lululemon clean lines belt bag.

Mono Sling Backpack

Best big sling bag

Carhartt mono sling backpack.

Dry Sling Pack

Most durable sling bag

Filson dry sling pack.

Everyday Sling

Best sling bag for travel

Peak design everyday sling.

Extractor Sling 2.0

Best gym sling bag

Oakley extractor sling 2.0.

Atom Sling Bag

Best outdoor sling bag

Patagonia atom sling bag.

Read more: Learn How Men's Health Tests Products

All in all, the best sling bags for men are accessories that combine style and convenience together to let you stay organized on the go. Below, we’ve tested dozens of sling bags in places from casual outings to professional settings to find the 15 best sling bags for men. Whether you're heading to the office, going on a trip, or running errands, these best sling bags for men will make your travel easier.

Best Crossbody Bags | Best Gym Bags | Best Travel Backpacks | Best Laptop Bags | Best Briefcases | Best Messenger Bags

Looking for something to take on your next trip? Everlane's take on the sling bag is big enough to hold your passport, wallet, phone, and then some, but small enough not to be cumbersome (which means you can move freely while keeping your essentials on you). We also love how the curved shape sits comfortably against your back or chest.

In our testing, we were impressed by the smoothness and durability of the fabric and loved how the slouchy style can be carried like a crossbody bag or a shoulder bag. Our editors also found that this bag really has the right amount of organization: one big main compartment divided into two, which we think is very no-frill but spot-on. We like to keep our gadgets on one side and snacks or grooming products on the other. The polyester also dries fast, we found, which is great for drizzly days.

We had to test out this Amazon best-seller, which we found to be perfect for traveling and hiking. It’s really got organization in spades, with mesh pockets on two sides for bottles or umbrellas, a small front zipper pocket for small gadgets and devices, and a big space inside that’s designed like a backpack’s—i.e., smartly compartmentalized into smaller places for anything from keys, passports, snacks, and other bits and bobs. The main pocket inside is also big enough to store our tablets, a feature that we deemed essential in a travel sling bag.

Oh, and don’t forget, there’s also a small bag on the shoulder strap, which adds more organization and storage to the whole package. All in all, when we bring this to hike or travel, it’s always roomy enough and fits everything we need for a day. Really, if you're looking for something simple and easy to carry as a sling bag, this beats a fanny pack any time.

As one of the smaller—or the smallest—sling bags on the list, Topo Designs Mini Quick Pack has become my go-to for when I’m just going out (to meet a friend or whatever) and maybe need to bring a charger, some granola bars, keys, and sunglasses. I found that its capacity is perfect for shorter trips and daily errands, and the straps are a piece of cake to adjust (though there are quite a few straps). Really, I opt for this easy pouch whenever I don’t need a backpack.

In my experience of carrying the bag as either a waist pack or crossbody bag while traveling or walking, I love how it always keeps up with my movement. With a decent amount of space and interior organization for a phone, cardholder, and other odds and ends, I’ve also stuffed it under a thin coat for when I'm in a pinch with ease. When you want to pack light, this is the star.

Designed to have expandable storage, this sling bag from Bellroy has a magnetic clasp to make it easier to put on and off. There are also a sunglasses pouch and key ring on the inside. We don't know about you, but we think this is perfect for attending summer concerts, baseball games, and so much more.

In our testing, we found that while the fabric is incredibly light, it’s super durable as well—ripstop, by the way—which makes the whole thing easy to be folded, rolled, or packed into our other bigger bags for travel. When carrying it, the only thing that feels hefty about it is the stuff inside, not the sling bag itself. More importantly, we love the smart compartments inside that make our organization easier.

Given that Lululemon is all about making things for the man on the go, it's no surprise that it made a cool, lightweight sling bag. You can also sport it as a fanny pack for when you're on a hike or going to an outdoor concert (or any other time you want to be hands-free). And on the inside, there's a mesh pocket with a key loop.

In our testing, we found this sling bag incredibly light and versatile, especially when your goal is to carry small and pack only the essentials. While it can’t store a water bottle, we love how easily our gadgets and snacks fit inside. Our favorite part, however, is the strap which we found is one of the easiest to adjustable and one of the most comfortable. The zipper, by the way, is super smooth to open and close—we’ve not encountered any accidents, yet.

Count on Carhartt to make a solid sling bag. This versatile style is made with a water-resistant material that'll keep your things dry through light rain and has a tablet sleeve. The main compartment measures 19 inches, while the fleece-lined front pocket is the perfect size for your keys or phone. Overall, if you're headed on a day hike and need something easy to throw over your shoulder, this spacious sling bag is the one for you. It'll carry everything and keep you from worrying about losing anything along the trail.

Whether you're planning to go on a river hike, head to the beach, fish, or do anything else in some water while you're outdoors, you'll want to keep your things dry. In which case, reach for this dry bag. Yes, it's undoubtedly pricey, but with the large capacity, D rings to hook up your go-to gear, and a padded back panel, this is sure to get plenty of use to make the investment well worth it. Plus, it has weatherproof zippers, so you don't have to worry about any water damage when it rains. However, it is on the heavier side, so make sure your traps are burley enough for this bad boy.

When it comes to travel bags, a packable soft-sided option is always a good idea. Peak Design's sleek and simple back is designed to carry (and protect) your DLSR camera, making it the perfect option for those who are sightseeing. However, it also makes a great option for everyday use—especially since there's a padded sleeve for a 13" laptop and dividers to keep things (or, you know, lenses) organized. We also love that it'll pack down into a zip pouch and fit easily within your bigger bag, features an interior organization system, and is made with water-resistant nylon.

If you aren’t ready to get something that screams “sling bag,” we suggest Oakley’s Extractor sling bag, which is basically a backpack in disguise—with the capacity of backpacks and the inner compartmentalization of backpacks as well. Although the downside is that it is heavier, it really packs a lot. And we love how the back panel with air channels helps deliver more comfort while we’re on the move. We found this sling bag specifically useful for when we want to pack heavy, just not too heavy, and it is smart and spacious enough to transport our goods.

Tough bags are what Patagonia is known for, and they really bring it with this one. The polyester fabric, for instance, is enhanced with a durable water-repellent coating, and we love how the harness makes sure the weight stays close to the body for more comfort. In a decent capacity with two main compartments and a zipper front pocket, we also love how versatile it is for hiking, traveling, commuting, etc.

Parker Clay Bale Sling Bag

Bale Sling Bag

If you’re looking for a luxury option that’ll last for ages, consider this leather sling bag from Parker Clay. Complete with a front zip pocket for your valuables and an adjustable strap, this is as stylish as it is functional. Plus, we can only imagine how good the patina will look with more wear. Fair warning, though—the interior organization isn't the smartest, but it is big enough to hold an iPad and your essentials.

THE NORTH FACE Berkeley Field Bag

Berkeley Field Bag

Lightweight, convenient to use, and vintage-looking, this charmer is big enough to carry your bottles and tablets, and we love how the water-resistant fabric comes in handy during rainy days. Plus, the external fleece-lined pocket makes accessing keys and phones super easy, while the zippered inner compartments store your heavy-duty stuff. Oh, by the way, there's even a concealed pocket in the back. All in all, we found this sling bag great for commuting from A to B, as well as hiking or traveling in general,

Dagne Dover Nova Sling Bag

Nova Sling Bag

This might just be the Goldilocks of sling bags—not too big, not too small, but just right. The Nova Sling Bag is big enough to hold your essentials and then some more (aka it might be. the only thing you carry from here on out). The mesh pockets and bungee cords make it ideal for daily commutes—and for the eco-conscious shoppers out there, the body's made with 7 recycled plastic bottles.

Nixon Hatch Bag

Hatch Bag

This Nixon sling bag is tough—I mean, come on, it’s made with Cordura fabric that can pretty much withstand anything. It can be carried like a briefcase or like a regular shoulder bag and waist bag. What we love most about it is its outer pockets, which let you easily reach in and grab your stuff. But the inside is impressive as well, spacious enough for a tablet plus some smaller accessories.

Tumi Bozeman Sling

Bozeman Sling

Let’s be real: No brand does it quite like Tumi. This durable sling pack, which is a great size for everyday use or day hikes, features a cool and functional buckle closure, a quick-release strap, and an interior wall pocket among other things to ensure you'll always have your things on you. To top it off, it comes with Tumi Tracer, a complimentary program that uses a unique 20-digit number to help you track down missing or stolen bags.

How to Choose the Best Sling Bags for Men

horizontal black line

Functionality: The best sling bags should offer features that cater to your needs, such as well-designed compartments and pockets that allow for smart organization and easy access, as well as ample storage capacity (usually measured and listed in liters) for anything you want to carry with you. Therefore, consider the layout and accessibility of the compartments, pockets, and dedicated spaces for laptops, tablets, or water bottles.

Comfort: Since sling bags are often worn over one shoulder or across the body, the best sling bags for men need to have adjustable straps and padding to distribute weight evenly across your shoulders and back—a properly fitted sling bag should feel comfortable and not strain you even when worn for extended periods. Therefore, pay attention to the strap’s material, width, and adjustability.

Durability: The best sling bags for men will come in durable materials that can withstand everyday use and even outdoor activities. Materials like high-quality nylon, polyester, or leather will help extend a sling bag’s lifespan because these materials' are great at resisting daily wear and tear. Also, pay attention to the stitching and construction of the sling bag to ensure it is sturdy.

Weight: A lightweight sling bag is usually better since it is easier to carry and feels better on your body by preventing unnecessary strain on your shoulders and back, especially if you plan to use the sling bag for hours on end, or carry it while hiking. Ultimately, the weight of a sling bag will depend on the bag's capacity, design, and intended uses.

Frequently Asked Questions

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Can sling bags carry laptops or tablets? Many sling bags are actually designed to accommodate laptops or tablets. These sling bags usually fall on the larger, more functional side, with a large capacity and spacious interior compartment, as well as dedicated padded compartments or sleeves that offer protection and secure storage for your electronic devices.

Can I use sling bags on different occasions? Sling bags are versatile just like backpacks, hence, with the right style and design, they can work in a variety of places. A sleek, leather option looks professional enough for the office and goes well with your office fits. A rugged, weather-resistant one is great for outdoor activities—in fact, there are sling bags designed for purposes like hiking and traveling. For your casual outings, a small, stylish sling bag will work wonders.

How We Selected

tktk

To find the best sling bags for men, our style and gear editors have personally tried on a variety of them and put them to the test on different occasions, such as carrying Waterfly's and Carhartt's sling bags to hike, packing all the needed essentials in Lululemon's and Bellroy's sling bags for a night out, or traveling during the day with Everlane's and Patagonia's sling bags.

From there, we evaluated these sling bags based on their style, capacity, performance such as resistance to weather, and overall functionality such as pockets and organization to make the final top picks. Specifically, we're looking for styles of sling bags for men that are not trendy or trend-chasing; instead, our picks of the best sling bags for men all will work well from the office to the great outdoors, provide a ton of value at reasonable price points, and come in styles that will look great years from now.

Why Trust Us

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At Men’s Health , we don’t produce product reviews that don’t actually involve testing anything hands-on or in person. For each product, we always use items ourselves first before considering whether to include them. Therefore, rest assured that our product recommendations derive from first-hand experience. You can read more about our testing process here .

More importantly, at Men’s Health, we have a whole fashion closet dedicated to calling in, trying out, and selecting the best as well as the newest products. We put them on ourselves to see how the items look and feel before making our final decision. And we constantly go into the fashion closet to feel a product’s materials and test it.

Lastly, you can trust our opinions on product recommendations and tips. Not only do we have Fashion Director Ted Stafford and Deputy Editor, Commerce Christian Gollayan who know the pros and cons of materials, but we also have a panel of influencers, stylists, and experts—including designers at top brands or retailers—whom we regularly seek shopping guides from. Therefore, our product recommendations and buying tips are all driven by professional, expert opinions.

Headshot of Christian Gollayan

Christian Gollayan oversees e-commerce content for Men's Health and Women's Health. Previously, he was the Associate Managing Editor at TheManual.com. Christian's work has also been featured in Food & Wine, InStyle, the New York Post, and Tatler Asia.

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The Best Crossbody Bags for Men

This handy accessory gives you space for your EDC and then some.

crossbody bag

By Evan Malachosky

Every product is carefully selected by our editors. If you buy from a link, we may earn a commission.  Learn more

Crossbody bags, however trendy they may be, are incredibly practical. Ideally, a crossbody bag comes with compartmentalized pockets within — even if it’s just a simple nylon or mesh divider. This way you can toss your keys and an iPhone, for example, into the same bag without the latter getting scratched. It’s smart to be sure the bag zips shut, too. Sure, a velcro-closing one might look cool and feel a bit easier to open, but you shouldn’t worry about whether something’s secretly fallen out.

Products in the Guide

Best overall crossbody bag: moment fanny sling, best upgrade crossbody bag: 1733 side pack 7l, best affordable crossbody bag: lululemon everywhere bag large, best crossbody bag with interior organization: bellroy sling, best throwback crossbody bag: the north face field bag, best minimalist crossbody bag: everlane the renew transit bag, best technical crossbody bag: topo designs mountain sling bag, best edc crossbody bag: mystery ranch full moon hip pack, best cheap crossbody bag: uniqlo round mini shoulder bag, best small-batch crossbody bag: billykirk no. 605 waxed canvas crossbody, best athletic crossbody bag: janji multipass sling bag, best heritage-inspired crossbody bag: tanner goods canyon crossbody pack, best hybrid crossbody bag: herschel heritage shoulder bag, best simple crossbody bag: state bags lenox bike bag, best small crossbody bag: eastpak springer powr waistpack, best california-made crossbody bag: joshu+vela etna sling, best designed crossbody bag: aer day sling 3 max.

Crossbody bags, by design, shouldn’t be capable of carrying a small load of groceries home — just your wallet, keys, phone, headphones, camera and maybe a water bottle. That being said, there’s no real set formula for these types of bags. Pick what works best for you.

green fanny sling

  • $60.00 at shopmoment.com $70.00 (14% off)
  • Compartmentalized pockets
  • Contoured shape for comfort
  • Water-sealed zippers
  • No strap for carrying when you take it off
  • Some users say the straps are too short
  • Country of Manufacture: China
  • Materials: Weatherproof recycled Kodra
  • Color(s): Olive, black, yellow, mustard, clay, black ripstop

Moment’s Fanny Sling is the ideal crossbody bag. It’s the right size; it has compartmentalized pockets for a phone, your keys, wallet and even a camera within. Plus, it’s contoured to wrap nicely around your chest or shoulder blades, depending on how you wear it. There’s even a 4-inch expander for a packable jacket or paperwork. Pick from five different colors (and one ripstop variation), each with water-sealed zippers and an adjustable strap. (For reference, it can store three 12 oz beer cans.)

Read our full review here .

Side Pack 7L

  • $176.00 at Huckberry $220.00 (20% off)
  • Super well-made for a small brand
  • Technical fabrics prove super durable
  • Large variety of storage options
  • Limited by nature of the brand size
  • Only available in one color
  • Country of Manufacture: U.S.A.
  • Materials: Ecopak EPX400 (laminated and reinforced 70D ripstop nylon blend with 400D recycled polyester with a DWR coating)
  • Color(s): Green

“We offer 3.5Liter and 7Liter versions of our Side Pack,” 1733 founder Phil Schade says. “7L is about the max in my opinion as anything larger, fully-loaded will start to get heavy on a single strap worn asymmetrically. Don’t carry a pair of shoes in your crossbody bag. If you need any extra pair of boots, you’re either packing wrong or you need a different type of bag.”

The 1733 Side Pack 7L Sling should instead be used for your essentials: your keys, phone, wallet, water and so on and so forth. And you easily can with this durable bag, which has separated pockets and a padded back panel for pressing evenly against your body.

Lululemon Everywhere Bag Large

  • $48.00 at Lululemon
  • Understated design
  • Numerous color options
  • Water-repellent fabric
  • Popular colors sell out quickly
  • Simple interior
  • Materials: Polyester, recycled polyester, nylon
  • Color(s): 10+

Lululemon’s Everywhere Belt Bag is always sold out — but for good reason. It’s a super solid crossbody bag: It’s simple, carries quite a bit and usually comes in a sleek colorway, like all-black. The new Everywhere Bag Large is a little bit bigger (barely), and it comes in an equally cool color called Grey Sage.

Bellroy Sling

  • $99.00 at Bellroy
  • Available in seven different colors
  • Soft-lined interior pouch for a phone or sunglasses
  • Back is padded for structure
  • Made from water-resistant recycled nylon
  • Has an easy access front compartment
  • Magnetic strap isn't as foolproof as a buckle
  • Not the most aesthetically interesting
  • Country of Manufacture: Makers in China, India and the Philippines
  • Materials: Woven nylon from 100% recycled PET bottles
  • Color(s): Black, teal, bronze, navy, slate, gray

Bellroy tops our guide to backpacks , so it’s only right they fit into our crossbody coverage, too. The Sling is built on the same principles: to be simple yet super convenient. There’s a front pocket for your phone, a soft-lined interior pouch for a pair of sunglasses and a ring to attach your keys to. It’s big enough to store a full-size water bottle but yet comfortable to carry.

The North Face Field Bag

  • $45.00 at Dick's Sporting Goods
  • Comfortable to carry
  • Rear pocket to protect your phone
  • Made from recycled materials
  • Unless tightened, the bag hangs by your hip
  • No strap for carrying by hand
  • Materials: 400D recycled nylon
  • Color(s): Black, pink, red, olive

It doesn’t matter whether you carry this out on the trails or on the train: It’ll do the same job. The North Face’s Field Bag is the right shape to wrap tightly around your body or hang near your hip. (The former’s more comfortable, to be fair.) Choose from either vintage white or this plain black, and reap the benefits of a mini backpack. That means a dedicated sleeve on the backside for your phone, a spacious center pocket and an adjustable strap.

The ReNew Transit Bag

  • $45.00 at Everlane $70.00 (36% off)
  • Available in four colors
  • Made from recycled polyester
  • Comfortable to carry on your front or back
  • No much compartmentalization within
  • No handle for carrying in hand
  • Bag isn't reinforced so it bends with too much weight
  • Materials: 100% recycled polyester
  • Color(s): Black, tan

Available in four sleek, simple colors, Everlane’s The ReNew Transit Bag makes commuting with and carrying your necessities no task at all. (Bye, bulging pockets!)

mountain sling bag

  • $60.00 at Moose Jaw $99.00 (39% off)
  • Made from 100% recycled nylon
  • Has a handle so you can carry it by hand
  • Compartmentalized within to protect your phone
  • Too big to be layered beneath a jacket
  • Excess of handles and straps enhances chances of the bag getting caught on things
  • Materials: 100% recycled nylon
  • Color(s): Blue, olive

I’m a big fan of Colorado-born brand Topo Designs’ Mountain Sling Bag. Why? It’s the right size; it mixes outdoor and city influences; and the inside is just compartmentalized enough. There’s plenty of free space within but also a zipper pouch for fragile items. Plus, there’s a hook to attach your keys to so they don’t jangle as you hike or run. Best of all, the bag’s made from 100-percent recycled nylon.

crossbody bag

  • $45.00 at Amazon
  • Separate pockets for valuables
  • Compression straps for a tight (but comfortable) fit
  • Top handle for carrying once off
  • Not the biggest bag
  • Materials: 330D Robic fabric
  • Color(s): 8+

Made from hummus-colored 330D Robic fabric, Mystery Ranch’s Full Moon Hip Pack has plenty of straps to keep the bag close to your body, but enough room to be serviceable on a day trip, too. Think: a camera, a small water bottle and all your EDC.

uniqlo bag

  • $20.00 at Uniqlo
  • Incredible inexpensive
  • Water-repellent exterior
  • Shaped for comfort and convenience
  • Sells out frequently
  • Fast fashion, questionable origins and impact
  • Materials: 100% polyester

A viral darling at an incredible price, this sling bag is all over social media and, frankly, people are obsessed with the value proposition of a $20 bag with this much style and substance. Find out what all the hype is about for yourself by picking up your own — it certainly won’t break the bank.

No. 605 Waxed Canvas Crossbody/Belt Pouch

  • $145.00 at billykirk.com
  • Waxed canvas exterior is waterproof
  • Compact bag isn't cumbersome
  • No interior organization pockets
  • Materials: Waxes canvas and leather
  • Color(s): Red, camo, black

Billykirk’s new canvas crossbody bag doesn’t have the most advanced strap, but that’s okay, because you couldn’t make it too heavy if you tried. It’s a compact carry-all, just big enough for a point-and-shoot (or phone), wallet and keys.

The durable waxed canvas exterior matches a more mature wardrobe, too — one that doesn’t mesh well with, well, mesh or polyester.

Janji multipass sling bag

  • $56.00 at janji.com
  • Second strap offers better bag security
  • Compartmentalized pockets evenly distribute the load
  • Extended base helps the bag wrap comfortably on your body
  • Isn't terribly big
  • Country of Manufacture: Vietnam
  • Materials: Coated polyester ripstop, nylon
  • Color(s): Orange, black, green, blue, patterns

Janji’s compartmentalized Multipass Sling Bag wraps securely around the body, which means it’s perfect for runners, bikers or simply brisk walkers (or subway commuters). It’s big enough to carry a few cards, your keys and phone, but little more — probably AirPods but maybe not a notebook.

The security, though, is enough reason to wear Janji’s bag, especially since there’s a second strap that secures it across your chest.

canyon crossbody pack

  • $100.00 at tannergoods.com
  • Compartmentalized interior
  • Dedicated front pocket for your phone
  • Can fit a water bottle
  • Foam padded so it holds its shape
  • Waxed canvas will need cared for
  • Materials: Waxed canvas, full-grain leather
  • Color(s): Tan, green, black, gray

The Canyon Crossbody Pack is big enough for a water bottle and some snacks but slim enough to be slipped beneath a jacket or an oversized hoodie. Besides its versatility, the naturalness of this option proves most impressive. There are leather accents and the exterior’s cut from 10-ounce waxed canvas, an equally waterproof alternative to nylon or polyester.

heritage shoulder bag

  • $64.00 at Amazon
  • Feels a lot like a backpack
  • A dedicated front pocket helps you access things you need often
  • Can't really be worn across your chest
  • The roomy interior lets things bang around if you're in motion
  • Materials: 600D polyester
  • Color(s): Green, crosshair black

Herschel makes an endless assortment of backpacks and duffle bags — shoulder bags, too, clearly. This one looks and feels a lot like the aforementioned backpacks, but streamlined. There’s still a roomy, unstructured interior pocket, but it’s balanced out by a zippered front one for your valuables. It’s on the bigger side, by the way, so you couldn’t layer it beneath a coat — or at least I wouldn’t recommend it.

Lenox Bike Bag

  • $95.00 at State Bags
  • Can be attached to the front of a bike
  • Perfect for city commuters
  • Water-resistant
  • Has two zipper pockets
  • Doesn't hang flush to your torso
  • Sacrifices specialization in favor of universality
  • The handlebar straps dig into your chest if it's tight across it
  • Materials: 100% coated polyester
  • Color(s): Black

State Bags turned its most popular Bike Bag into something you can carry, too. It’s the convertible of crossbody bags, if you will. That means when you’re riding to work or just for exercise, the bag easily attaches to your handlebars. When you’re done riding, removing it only requires two clicks and it can go right back across your chest. I will say, though, the bag definitely cuts some corners in favor of versatility, but these are minor complaints. I found that the handlebar straps do dig into your chest if you wear it super tightly.

Springer Powr Waistpack

  • Super simple
  • Available in several different colors
  • No internal dividers
  • Smaller than others
  • Flimsy, but that makes stuffing it easier
  • Materials: 100% Nylon
  • Color(s): 35+

Eastpak makes, in my opinion, the best cheap backpack. So, surprise, surprise that the brand’s taken a similarly affordable approach to the crossbody bag. It’s so simple, and that’s quite refreshing in a category rife with hyper-modified bags with pockets and storage capabilities no one really ever uses. No, there isn’t a divider within, meaning your phone might get scratched if you put it in there with a ring of keys, but that’s a minor issue. (They make carabiners, you know?) Trust that this option will keep its contents dry, protected from pickpockets and comfortably snug to your person.

Joshuvela Etna Sling

  • $138.00 at Joshuvela
  • Made in San Francisco
  • Super lightweight
  • Has leather trim
  • Comes in three colors
  • Has compartmentalized pockets
  • Made from military-grade nylon
  • Front mesh pocket isn't practical for smaller or easily damaged items
  • Materials: Nylon, Italian leather
  • Color(s): Olive, tan, black

The Etna Sling is an easy-to-carry crossbody made in Joshu+Vela’s independent San Francisco studio using military-grade materials. The hardware is all brass; the nylon is waterproof and rip-resistant; and the mesh pocket gives you room for larger, less fragile items. Although they show a model carrying their phone in there, I wouldn’t. Think: water damage, dings off poles or other pedestrians, etc, etc. Otherwise, this bag checks all of the boxes. It’s big enough for your essentials and little more, and it compartmentalizes them so they don’t damage each other.

Day Sling 3 Max

  • $95.00 at aersf.com
  • Lots of internal compartments
  • Big enough for a bike lock and headphones
  • Strap doesn't tighten enough to keep it on your back while riding
  • Retains smells
  • Materials: 1680D Cordura ballistic nylon
  • Color(s): Black, gray

Aer’s Day Sling 3 Max Belt Bag comes with a ton of internal organizational elements, including three pockets with plenty of dividers within. There is a large zippered sleeve, mesh and nylon dividers, plus mesh pockets, too. It’s all waterproof, too, and it was big enough to fit a full-size bike lock, my phone, wallet and keys, a water bottle and headphones.

Related Topics

zara travel sling bag

Four Travel Bags We Recommend Constantly

Looking for the perfect bag for your next trip? Start your search here.

Every product is carefully selected by our editors. If you buy from a link, we may earn a commission.  Learn more

With spring and summer travel on the horizon, packing is suddenly on everyone’s mind. We’ve published tons of extensive buying guides packed with suggestions on  duffles ,  hard-sided suitcases ,  cross-body bags ,  aluminum luggage ,  travel backpacks and more.

Still, there are always a few particular bags our editors recommend more consistently than others. To make things easier for you — and admittedly us — we’ve collected our most popular bag recommendations in one place.

Best Carry-On Suitcase

Best Overall Carry-On

Away Carry-On

  • Lightweight polycarbonate design is still durabl
  • Super spacious and easy to pack
  • The optional battery pack keeps you charged on the go
  • The handle feels flimsy compared to the rest of the hardy suitcase
  • Battery must come out to be checked-in
  • $275.00 at Away

Best Duffle Bag

Best Overall Duffle Bag

Peak Design Travel Duffle

This bag features magnetic snap handles, elegant design and interior pockets that offer lots of opportunity for organization. It’s also 100 percent waterproof and is made with a tough-as-nails 600D nylon canvas external shell.

  • Elegant, stylish design
  • Interior expands as needed when overpacked
  • Weatherproof thanks to durable 600D nylon external shell
  • Lots of interior pockets for storage, plus magnetic handles for secure grip
  • A few users say their magnetic handles were weak
  • The shoulder strap is weak, according to one user
  • $130.00 at Peak Design

Best Carry-On Backpack

Best Overall

Peak Design 45L Travel Backpack

  • Can expand from a 35L day bag into 45L multi-day gear hauler
  • Offers many ways to load & access contents
  • Backpack straps can hide conveniently out of site via magnets
  • Weather proof shell
  • Main pouch less accessible than some other bags on the list
  • Cinch straps only work okay
  • $299 at Peak Design
  • $299 at Huckberry
  • $299 at REI
  • $299 at Backcountry
  • $299 at Amazon

Best Crossbody Bag

Best Overall Crossbody Bag

Moment MTW Fanny Sling 2L

This is our pick for the best crossbody (or sling) bag you can buy. It’s expandable, versatile, secure, durable, stylish and just about everything else you could want in a crossbody bag. It even comes in five handsome colorways.

  • Compartmentalized pockets
  • Contoured shape for comfort
  • Water-sealed zippers
  • No strap for carrying when you take it off
  • Some users say the straps are too short
  • $59.99 at Moment $69.99 (14% off)
  • $59.99 at Amazon $69.99 (14% off)

Take a Trip

  • The Best Crossbody Bags for Men
  • The Best Backpacks for Everyday Use
  • The Best Aluminum Suitcases for Every Trip
  • Away vs Monos: Which Carry-On Should You Take on Your Next Trip?
  • The Best Carry-On Suitcases for Your Next Trip
  • Rimowa Original Cabin Carry-On Review: Why This Expensive Suitcase Is Worth the Splurge
  • The Best Luggage Brands — And Their Best Products, Too

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This article may contain affiliate links that Microsoft and/or the publisher may receive a commission from if you buy a product or service through those links.

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Watch CBS News

The best RFID-blocking wallets and bags for 2024 take the stress out of travel

By Jason R. Rich

Edited By Leslie Gornstein

Updated on: May 29, 2024 / 1:16 PM EDT / Essentials

CBS Essentials is created independently of the CBS News editorial staff. We may receive commissions from some links to products on this page. Promotions are subject to availability and retailer terms.

The 5 best RFID blocking wallets and bags for 2024

If you typically carry credit cards, a debit card, a driver's license or a passport, you could be vulnerable to hackers -- even if those cards never leave your wallet. Criminals can use special tech to wirelessly access the information stored in those cards and IDs. There's a way to fight back, though: Consider investing in an RFID-blocking wallet, passport case or bag. 

Most of the latest credit cards, debit cards and government IDs have an RFID chip installed. In the case of credit and debit cards, this tech comes in handy; it lets you tap to pay for all kinds of purchases at stores worldwide. But that same tech is what a criminal is looking for. Hackers can scan your credit or debit card numbers or IDs, allowing them to steal your money or identity. An RFID-blocking wallet prevents contactless scanning, which is also known as a "skimming attack."

Best RFID-blocking wallets and bags

RFID-blocking wallets, passport cases, fanny packs, purses and crossbody bags incorporate a layer of carbon fiber or aluminum that can prevent a skimming attack and keep the information stored in your cards and IDs protected. Our in-house team of  travel experts  has curated this selection of the best RFID-blocking bags, wallets, covers and more in 2024.

Best RFID blocking wallet overall : Bellroy Hide & Seek

  • Best budget RFID blocking wallet : Herschel Hank 
  • Best minimalist RFID-blocking wallet : The Ridge Wallet
  • Best leather bi-fold RFID blocking wallet : Harber London Leather Bifold Zip Wallet
  • Best women's RFID-blocking leather wallet : Royce New York Continental Wallet
  • Best RFID-blocking handbag : Sherpani Metro Convertible Travel Sling
  • Best RFID-blocking passport cover : Royce New York Leather Passport Wallet
  • Best RFID-blocking money belt : Boxiki Travel Hidden Waist Pack
  • Best RFID-blocking travel neck wallet : Zero Grid Travel Neck Wallet
  • Best RFID-blocking leather travel wallet : Harber London Travel Wallet with RFID Protection

Bellroy Hide & Seek Wallet

Available in seven stunning colors -- including this green that we really like -- this slim, classically designed wallet offers multiple interior pockets that hold five to 12 cards. This includes quick access slots for your most commonly used cards. The entire wallet offers RFID blocking.

This Hide & Seek wallet is crafted from eco-tanned, environmentally certified leather. It's available in two heights, to accommodate paper currencies from around the world. There's also a separate section for business cards.

If you're seeking an elegant and versatile wallet that holds a lot (without generating bulk) and that offers RFID protection for your cards and ID, we recommend Bellroy's Hide & Seek for yourself or to give as a gift.

Best budget RFID-blocking wallet : Herschel Hank 

Herschel Hank II RFID Wallet

Here's an affordable, unisex wallet that offers a classic bi-fold style. It has a currency sleeve, card slots and an ID window -- all of which offer RFID blocking. 

This is a durable, everyday wallet made from EcoSystem 600D fabric that's created from 100% recycled, post-consumer water bottles, along with synthetic leather.

Find this 4.7-star-rated wallet on Amazon for $21.

Best minimalist RFID blocking wallet : The Ridge wallet

The Ridge Wallet

Not into leather -- faux or otherwise?

For that person looking for a wallet where less is more, take a look at the Ridge. This is a super slim, minimalist wallet that's made from carbon fiber. 

The inside of the wallet securely holds up to 12 cards in a compartment that offers RFID blocking. On the outside, you'll find a handy, easy-access aluminum money clip.

The Ridge is available in more than a dozen colors and comes with a lifetime guarantee. The RFID blocking material used is 6061-T6 aluminum. The entire wallet weighs just 4.9 ounces and is a bestseller on Amazon.

Best leather bi-fold RFID-blocking wallet : Harber London leather bi-fold zip wallet

Harber London Leather Bifold Zip Wallet

Since 2012, this London company has been designing and creating handmade, premium leather wallets, bags and accessories crafted in Spain. They're beautiful to look at, durable and versatile. 

This popular leather bi-fold zip wallet with RFID protection is available in tan, black or deep brown. It offers a slim design and a handful of useful compartments for bills, coins, cards and an ID. There's also an integrated zippered pouch. This wallet is made from premium full-grain leather and incorporates a layer of RFID-blocking material.

The leather is designed to develop a unique patina over time. When closed, the wallet measures 3.54 x 4.09 inches. In the wallet's front pocket, you can store four to eight cards. An additional four to eight cards can be kept in the inner compartments.

Best women's RFID-blocking leather wallet : Royce New York continental wallet

Royce New York RFID Blocking Continental Wallet

For an elegant leather wallet with a continental design, head over to Neiman Marcus to purchase this Royce New York wallet in your choice of red, black, navy blue or pink. Free monogramming (with up to three initials) is included.

The wallet measures 8 x 4.25 x 0.75 inches when open and has separate compartments for bills, cards and other essentials. There's also a convenient, zippered center section.

Treat yourself to a wallet that's designed to last for years, or buy one as a gift for someone special. In addition to offering the functionality people need from a wallet, this one offers the peace of mind provided by RFID blocking.

Best RFID-blocking handbag : Sherpani Metro convertible travel sling

Sherpani Metro Convertible Travel Sling

RFID blocking can be found in more than just traditional wallets. Here's an example of a convertible travel mini sling from Sherpani, featuring an adjustable and cut-proof strap that can be reversed to give easy access to what's stored inside. Even better, the strap is centered, so this bag is great for either right- or left-handed people.

The bag is made from recycled material and features RFID blocking and anti-theft protection. Locking zippers, a wire-loop chair lock, a return-me tag, and a slash-proof bottom are among the other impressive features. It's a great accessory to hold your important belongings while traveling.

This travel sling measures 7 x 12 x 3 inches and comes in a variety of color combinations. It's made from Ballistic nylon, vegan leather and a durable fabric made from 11 recycled plastic bottles, all diverted from landfills. The Metro is water-resistant and includes four pockets and one padded sleeve. The strap can be adjusted between 22.5 and 40.5 inches.

Best RFID-blocking passport cover: Royce New York leather passport wallet

Royce New York Leather RFID Blocking Passport Wallet

Avoid potential identity theft via your passport, with a travel-friendly cover that offers RFID blocking. And enjoy a little luxury while you're at it.

This personalized leather passport cover from Royce New York is available in your choice of five colors. It offers a compartment for your passport, several card slots and an inside 3 x 4 inch pocket for a vaccine card or other important documents.

Three-initial monogramming is included for free, and the wallet itself is made from soft leather. It measures 5.6 x 4 x 0.25 inches and will be a wonderful travel companion for years.

Best RFID-blocking money belt : Boxiki Travel hidden waist pack

Boxiki Travel Hidden Money Belt

When you're touring major cities worldwide, navigating your way through busy airports or visiting crowded tourist spots, pickpockets are always a threat. To protect your valuables, consider a hidden waist pack that fits securely under a shirt.

In addition to securely holding cash, credit cards and other valuables, there's enough room to hold a smartphone, too. This pack offers RFID blocking and is designed to keep your possessions secure and away from potential pickpockets. You get three sections with two spacious pockets that are held shut with zippers.

Measuring 11.22 x 5.51 inches, this waste pack is slim, lightweight, durable and has an adjustable strap. It's made primarily from rip-stop nylon. It only comes in one color, but since it's designed to be kept under your shirt, nobody will see it.

Best RFID-blocking travel neck wallet : Zero Grid travel neck wallet

Zero Grid Travel Neck Wallet

Instead of securing your cash, credit cards, passport and other essentials in a hidden waist pack , the Zero Grid travel wallet can be worn securely around your neck. 

This bag is available in your choice of six colors and is primarily made from moisture-resistant, rip-stop nylon. The bag contains seven RFID-blocking sleeves and compartments -- all of which are easily accessible. 

The Zero Grid bag comes with lost and found coverage and two recovery tags from ReturnMe. It measures 7.5 x 5.7 x 1 inches and offers a unisex design that's perfect for travelers and urban explorers.

Best RFID-blocking leather travel wallet: Harber London travel wallet 

Harber London Travel Wallet with RFID Protection

In addition to Harber London's bi-fold zip wallet , another piece in this company's beautifully designed leather collection is this travel wallet. It comes in three color combinations and is designed to hold a passport, up to 12 cards, paper-based currency and other essentials -- each in separate, easy-to-access compartments.

The wallet is handmade in Spain from full-grain leather that will age over time and develop a unique patina. All of the internal pockets offer RFID blocking. This is a well-designed, versatile and durable travel wallet that'll serve as an heirloom if it's treated right.

Do you really need an RFID-blocking wallet?

Criminals are more apt to steal your physical wallet, cards or IDs, because not every key piece of info can be gleaned wirelessly. In many cases, the information stored in your cards or IDs is encrypted, so even if a criminal does try to wirelessly steal your info, chances are, they won't be able to do too much with it.

That said, using an RFID-blocking wallet or bag does give you an added level of protection for your identity, since they could prevent someone from illegally accessing your driver's license or passport information wirelessly and without your knowledge.

Or, instead of carrying around your physical debit or credit cards in a wallet, another option is to rely on an electronic payment service, like Apple Pay, Google Pay, or  Samsung Pay  using your smartphone or smartwatch.

Jason R. Rich ( www.JasonRich.com ) is an internationally recognized consumer technology expert with more than 30 years' writing experience. He's also an accomplished author and photographer. One of his most recently published books, The Remote Worker's Handbook: How to Effectively Work From Anywhere ($24.99, Entrepreneur Books) is now available from Amazon and wherever books are sold.

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Idaho jury sentences Chad Daybell to death

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Boeing Starliner launch scrubbed at the late minute

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Boeing Starliner's first astronaut flight halted at the last minute

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Elektrostal Is Great For

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  • Apelsin Hotel
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  • Apart Hotel Yantar
  • Mini Hotel Banifatsiy
  • Restaurant Globus
  • Amsterdam Moments
  • Cafe Antresole
  • Viki Cinema
  • Statue of Lenin
  • Park of Culture and Leisure

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Out of the Centre

Savvino-storozhevsky monastery and museum.

Savvino-Storozhevsky Monastery and Museum

Zvenigorod's most famous sight is the Savvino-Storozhevsky Monastery, which was founded in 1398 by the monk Savva from the Troitse-Sergieva Lavra, at the invitation and with the support of Prince Yury Dmitrievich of Zvenigorod. Savva was later canonised as St Sabbas (Savva) of Storozhev. The monastery late flourished under the reign of Tsar Alexis, who chose the monastery as his family church and often went on pilgrimage there and made lots of donations to it. Most of the monastery’s buildings date from this time. The monastery is heavily fortified with thick walls and six towers, the most impressive of which is the Krasny Tower which also serves as the eastern entrance. The monastery was closed in 1918 and only reopened in 1995. In 1998 Patriarch Alexius II took part in a service to return the relics of St Sabbas to the monastery. Today the monastery has the status of a stauropegic monastery, which is second in status to a lavra. In addition to being a working monastery, it also holds the Zvenigorod Historical, Architectural and Art Museum.

Belfry and Neighbouring Churches

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Located near the main entrance is the monastery's belfry which is perhaps the calling card of the monastery due to its uniqueness. It was built in the 1650s and the St Sergius of Radonezh’s Church was opened on the middle tier in the mid-17th century, although it was originally dedicated to the Trinity. The belfry's 35-tonne Great Bladgovestny Bell fell in 1941 and was only restored and returned in 2003. Attached to the belfry is a large refectory and the Transfiguration Church, both of which were built on the orders of Tsar Alexis in the 1650s.  

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To the left of the belfry is another, smaller, refectory which is attached to the Trinity Gate-Church, which was also constructed in the 1650s on the orders of Tsar Alexis who made it his own family church. The church is elaborately decorated with colourful trims and underneath the archway is a beautiful 19th century fresco.

Nativity of Virgin Mary Cathedral

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The Nativity of Virgin Mary Cathedral is the oldest building in the monastery and among the oldest buildings in the Moscow Region. It was built between 1404 and 1405 during the lifetime of St Sabbas and using the funds of Prince Yury of Zvenigorod. The white-stone cathedral is a standard four-pillar design with a single golden dome. After the death of St Sabbas he was interred in the cathedral and a new altar dedicated to him was added.

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Under the reign of Tsar Alexis the cathedral was decorated with frescoes by Stepan Ryazanets, some of which remain today. Tsar Alexis also presented the cathedral with a five-tier iconostasis, the top row of icons have been preserved.

Tsaritsa's Chambers

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The Nativity of Virgin Mary Cathedral is located between the Tsaritsa's Chambers of the left and the Palace of Tsar Alexis on the right. The Tsaritsa's Chambers were built in the mid-17th century for the wife of Tsar Alexey - Tsaritsa Maria Ilinichna Miloskavskaya. The design of the building is influenced by the ancient Russian architectural style. Is prettier than the Tsar's chambers opposite, being red in colour with elaborately decorated window frames and entrance.

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At present the Tsaritsa's Chambers houses the Zvenigorod Historical, Architectural and Art Museum. Among its displays is an accurate recreation of the interior of a noble lady's chambers including furniture, decorations and a decorated tiled oven, and an exhibition on the history of Zvenigorod and the monastery.

Palace of Tsar Alexis

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The Palace of Tsar Alexis was built in the 1650s and is now one of the best surviving examples of non-religious architecture of that era. It was built especially for Tsar Alexis who often visited the monastery on religious pilgrimages. Its most striking feature is its pretty row of nine chimney spouts which resemble towers.

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  • Places of interest
  • Yuri Gagarin Cosmonaut Training Center
  • Peter the Great Military Academy
  • Central Museum of the Air Forces at Monino
  • History of Russian Scarfs and Shawls Museum
  • Ramenskii History and Art Museum
  • Balashikha Museum of History and Local Lore
  • Pekhorka Park
  • Balashikha Arena
  • Drama Theatre BOOM
  • Bykovo Manor
  • Malenky Puppet Theater
  • Pavlovsky Posad Museum of Art and History
  • Saturn Stadium
  • Church of Vladimir
  • Likino Dulevo Museum of Local Lore
  • Orekhovo Zuevsky City Exhibition Hall
  • Noginsk Museum and Exhibition Center
  • Fairy Tale Children's Model Puppet Theater
  • Fifth House Gallery
  • Malakhovka Museum of History and Culture

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  23. Elektrostal, Moscow Oblast, Russia

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    A mix of the charming, modern, and tried and true. See all. Apelsin Hotel. 43. from $48/night. Apart Hotel Yantar. 2. from $28/night. Elektrostal Hotel.

  25. Savvino-Storozhevsky Monastery and Museum

    Zvenigorod's most famous sight is the Savvino-Storozhevsky Monastery, which was founded in 1398 by the monk Savva from the Troitse-Sergieva Lavra, at the invitation and with the support of Prince Yury Dmitrievich of Zvenigorod. Savva was later canonised as St Sabbas (Savva) of Storozhev. The monastery late flourished under the reign of Tsar ...

  26. Visit Elektrostal: 2024 Travel Guide for Elektrostal, Moscow Oblast

    Travel Guide. Check-in. Check-out. Guests. Search. Explore map. Visit Elektrostal. Things to do. Check Elektrostal hotel availability. Check prices in Elektrostal for tonight, Apr 20 - Apr 21. Tonight. Apr 20 - Apr 21. Check prices in Elektrostal for tomorrow night, Apr 21 - Apr 22. Tomorrow night.