The Best Anti-Theft Crossbody Travel Bag (2026 Thafael Review)

Looking for the best crossbody travel bag that’s also stylish? Let me introduce you to Thafael’s La Trotteuse Anti-Theft Crossbody Bag.

Fellow solo female travellers know how hard it can be to find the perfect travel handbag. For me, I want a stylish, anti-theft crossbody bag that holds all my essentials. If you’re travelling soon or just want something practical for day-to-day life, the Thafael Anti-Theft Crossbody Bag is my go-to. Keep reading to learn why I think this is the best crossbody bag for travel.

Why a crossbody travel bag is the only bag you need

There’s a reason you see so many travellers wearing crossbody bags, especially in busy cities. They just make sense. A good crossbody travel bag keeps everything close to your body, which instantly feels more secure. You’re not swinging a tote around or worrying about someone unzipping a backpack behind you.

It’s also completely hands-free. That might not sound like a big deal until you’re juggling a suitcase, your phone, a coffee, and your boarding pass simultaneously. Then there’s the comfort factor. When you’re walking all day, the last thing you want is a heavy bag digging into your shoulders.

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What to look for in a crossbody travel bag

Not all crossbody bags are created equal. Some may look cute, but fall apart the second you actually travel with them. Here’s what actually matters.

1. Size and capacity

You want something that fits your travel essentials without turning into a black hole. If it’s too big, you’ll overpack. If it’s too small, you’ll get frustrated. For me, I want room for my passport, wallet, Kindle, sunglasses, and a little pouch of extra necessities.

2. Security

Zippers are non-negotiable. You want to know your belongings are safe while in crowded places.

3. Comfort

A thick, adjustable shoulder strap is a must. You’ll be wearing your handbag for hours at a time, so it needs to sit comfortably across your body without digging in. The thicker the band, the more comfortable and sturdier it is, too.

4. Organisation

Is it just me who thinks multiple compartments that are well-placed in a handbag make a huge difference? Say goodbye to standing in the middle of the street trying to find your lip balm!

5. Style

Just because you’re travelling doesn’t mean you don’t want to look cute! You still want a bag that works with your outfits. Bonus points if it can take you from day to night.

My go-to anti-theft crossbody bag for travel

The La Trotteuse Crossbody Travel Bag ticks all these boxes and hits that sweet spot between practical and stylish. Here’s why I think it’s the best crossbody bag for travel.

First impressions

The first thing I noticed was how stylish and structured it felt. The thick, adjustable strap is so comfortable for all-day wear. Plus, it’s so beautiful that it can easily go from day to night. The second feature that wowed me was the roomy main compartment.

What fits inside

This is where it really works. It features 12 smart pockets to keep you organised:

• 7 RFID card slots
• 1 RFID passport pocket
• 2 small open pockets for your phone, earphones and more
• 1 middle zippered pocket you can use instead of a wallet to store cash
• 1 lockable zippered back pocket

I can comfortably fit essential travel accessories, such as my passport, phone, cash, sunglasses, portable charger, and hand sanitiser. With the multiple compartments, everything has its place, which makes such a difference when you’re moving around a lot. It makes my organised brain happy 😅.

Anti-theft functions

If you want to feel safe and secure while in bustling crowds, you need this bag. Let me list the amazing anti-theft features:

• Lockable main zippers, which open all the way.
• Lockable, detachable strap. You can screw it shut or unclip it to wrap around a chair or your suitcase. It’s also slash-resistant and adjustable so that you can wear it across your body or over your shoulder.
• Slash-resistant lining
• RFID-blocking pockets
• A hidden, lockable back pocket

A+ manufacturing

This crossbody bag is built to last for many years of worldwide travels. The premium microfiber vegan leather outer is scratch-resistant, tear-resistant, and water-resistant. Most stains simply wipe away with a damp cloth.

It’s also intentionally structured and holds its shape, so you always look polished. Add to that durable, fade-resistant hardware, and you have a quality travel bag.

Multiple colours available

I went classic with black, but multiple colours are available: green olive, taupe, navy, beige, and orange. The orange is actually such a fun pop of colour!

How it performs while travelling

This is the real test. At the airport, it keeps everything within easy reach without holding you up in security. Walking around all day, it stays comfortable and doesn’t feel heavy or awkward. And the best part is that it transitions easily into evenings. You don’t feel like you’re carrying a “travel bag” when you go out for dinner.

Pros and cons

Pros:

• Lightweight and easy to wear all day
• Fits all the essentials without feeling bulky
• Stylish and structured to transition from day to night
• Good level of organisation
• Fantastic anti-theft additions

Cons:

• Limited space for bulkier items like a camera or a water bottle

Crossbody travel bag vs backpack vs tote bag

If you’re deciding what to bring on your trip, here’s how they compare.

• Crossbody bags are the best for security and convenience. Everything stays close to you and is easy to access. They’re also the only option that can switch from a crossbody to a shoulder bag.
• Backpacks are great if you need to carry more, but they’re not as secure in crowded areas and can get uncomfortable over long days.
• Tote bags look nice, but they’re probably the least practical. They’re easy to access for everyone, not just you, and can get heavy quickly.

For most trips, especially city travel, a crossbody wins every time.

What I pack in my crossbody travel bag

I’ve refined this over time, and it’s made travelling so much easier.

My travel essentials:

• Passport
• Phone
• Earphones
• Card holder or small wallet
• Portable charger
• Lip balm
• Sunglasses
• Hand sanitiser
• Kindle (I’m a book girlie first and foremost)

Is the Thafael crossbody travel bag worth it?

Short answer, yes! A good crossbody travel bag makes everything feel easier. You’re more organised, more comfortable, and a lot less stressed about your belongings. It’s one of those small upgrades and investments that genuinely improve your travel experience.

Another great thing about the La Trotteuse Crossbody Travel Bag is that it fits seamlessly into everyday life. It’s not *just* a travel bag. It’s a stylish crossbody bag you can wear for everyday errands or on date night.

Trust me – once you make the investment, you won’t regret it, and will use the bag for years to come.

Thank you to Thafael for the gifted sling bag. All opinions are my own.