rei travel lock

Your cart is empty

SHOP BY CATEGORY

CARRY-ON LUGGAGE

CHECKED LUGGAGE

• Aviation Professionals

Guide to TSA Luggage Locks

When you travel, your luggage should be securely protected with TSA-approved luggage locks. TSA-approved locks all fit a universal master key only accessible by TSA agents that is used to inspect luggage on an as-needed basis. As only TSA agents have access to the master key, your luggage remains securely locked when handled by anyone else.

Luggage locks that are TSA-approved protect your luggage as well as its contents. TSA agents will break locks not approved by the TSA off bags to inspect luggage contents, leaving the bag’s contents vulnerable to theft and possibly damaging your bags.

We recommend  using TSA luggage locks on your suitcase . At the same time, we understand some confusion exists concerning what type of TSA locks to use, how to set combinations on TSA-approved locks, and how to reset a luggage lock if you forget your combination. We’ll answer your concerns here.

Where Can I Buy TSA-Approved Locks?

You can buy TSA-approved luggage locks at airport kiosks, local luggage stores, and online outlets. A TSA-approved lock’s packaging will clearly state the lock is approved by the TSA. Avoid luggage locks that do not make this claim.

If you want to know if your lock was opened by a TSA master key, purchase a lock with a red/green indicator. The indicator is set to green and only switches to red if the bag was opened for inspection. You can reset the indicator for future trips using a paperclip, pen, or other slender-pointed object.

Which Types of Luggage Locks are TSA approved?

You can choose several types of TSA-approved locks to fit your personal needs. Possibilities include:

• Key Locks are traditional padlocks that use a physical key to open and close the lock. One of the most common types of TSA-approved travel locks, key locks are affordable ways to keep your suitcase contents safe. One word of caution: The key for a travel key lock is small and easy to lose. Keep your key in a secure place, or you could find yourself locked out of your luggage, in which case you’ll need a small hacksaw to cut through the lock. 
• Combination Locks are a good choice for anyone who doesn't want to keep track of small travel lock keys. These locks use a three or four-digit combination. The lock has a keyhole for the TSA master key, and as long as you don't forget your combination, you won't be locked out of your suitcase. 
• Cable Locks are combination locks that use a semi-flexible cable to lock instead of the traditional metal clip. The cable's flexibility is a plus, as the lock can be used for various applications, including locking strongboxes. Some cable locks come with retractable cables that store in the lock.
• Key Card Locks use a key card similar to those used to open hotel rooms. Like combination locks, TSA-approved key card locks have a keyhole for the TSA master key. The key card is credit card size, and fits easily into a purse or wallet.

Can I Lock My Luggage on a Flight?

Travelers sometimes express concern about whether they are allowed to lock their luggage on flights. The answer is yes, you can and should secure your bags on all flights. The rules for domestic and international flights, however, are slightly different.

Can I Lock My Luggage on a Domestic Flight?

You can lock your luggage on a domestic flight. Whether or not you choose to do so depends on what you’re transporting. A lock provides extra security and peace of mind if you’re checking in a suitcase with expensive clothing or valuable items inside. A lock may not be needed if you’re traveling with a carry-on bag filled with inexpensive items.

Should I Lock My Luggage for International Flights?

Luggage locks are necessary when traveling internationally to secure your belongings and minimize theft risk. Some areas of the world have problems with luggage theft in and around airports. A securely locked suitcase is less likely to be stolen than one that can be quickly opened, riffled through for valuables, and discarded.

You can use TSA-approved luggage locks internationally, but not all international airport security have access to the TSA master key. In countries where the key is unavailable, security agents may break TSA locks to inspect bags, which could damage your bag and leave you in need of  luggage repair . Fortunately, many popular international destinations now use the TSA master key, at least at major airports. Check the following chart to see if your destination uses the TSA master key:

How Can I Reset My Luggage Lock?

Resetting a combination luggage lock is easy if you’re entering a new combination for the first time or changing a known combination. The process is more complicated if you have forgotten the combination. Here’s how to handle each of those situations.

How to Create a New Password With A New TSA Lock

Traveling using a TSA-approved lock’s factory setting is risky — it’s like using ‘password’ as an online password, so you should enter a new combination before traveling. You may also want to change your combination to keep someone who knows your password out of your bag.

Changing an Integrated TSA Lock Password

Changing the password for suitcases with integrated TSA locks requires a slightly different approach:

• Set the lock dial to 0000 or your current password.
• Slide the release button towards the dials to confirm the lock will release. 
• Insert a pointy object, such as a glass repair screwdriver, into the reset button. You do not need to hold the button down.
• Set the deal to the new password. 
• Poised the release button towards the dials to confirm the new code. The reset button will click and release if you set the code correctly. 
• Test the new password by turning the dials to a number other than the new code, then push the release button. The dials should not release. 
• Insert the bag's zipper tabs into their slots while the preferred number is displayed. The tabs should release.

Once you get the lock open, remember the combination or add it to your phone. A common traveler's trick is to add a fake name and phone number to their phone’s contact list, using the combination for the last number of the phone number.

TSA-approved luggage locks provide the most protection when paired with high-quality, well-made luggage. Check out  luggage sets from Travelpro to find the bags and suitcases airline professionals use.

🧭 Explore Our Guides

Luggage shopping guides.

Beginner Travel Tips

Airline tips.

Luggage Repair & Maintenance

3 Best TSA Approved Luggage Locks for Safe International Travel

As you prepare for your next international journey, you might wonder about the best ways to secure your luggage. You’ve likely come across the term “best TSA approved luggage locks” and are eager to understand their significance and benefits.

The unsettling reality of international travel is the potential risk of theft or tampering. The last thing any traveler wants is to land in a foreign country only to find their belongings compromised. This concern becomes even more pressing when you consider the stringent security checks and the possibility of your locks being cut open.

With extensive research and firsthand experience, we’ve delved deep into the world of luggage security. Our findings? The best TSA approved luggage locks not only offer peace of mind but also comply with international security standards, ensuring your belongings remain intact and your journey remains hassle-free.

Our recommendations for TSA approved luggage locks include the sentry logo, ensuring they are perfect for international travel. We chose 3 varieties, all TSA-approved, so TSA agents can safely open your luggage if they see a need to inspect it more closely. Together, let’s explore the features of each chosen lock so you can make the best-informed decision.

Best TSA Approved Luggage Locks For International Travel (Updated List)

The reality of international travel is that theft occurs all the time. The last thing you want to worry about is having your luggage stolen and not having any clothes or toiletries in a different country.

Not to mention, having a lock on your travel luggage is a great and effective deterrent from thieves taking your bag. It also gives you a sense of security, knowing your stuff is safe.

Quick Video Reviewing The Best TSA Approved Luggage Locks

Best TSA Approved Luggage Locks Product Reviews

Let’s look at 3 of our best TSA luggage lock reviews, with each one being the strongest TSA lock.

1. Forge TSA Approved Cable Luggage Locks (Best Overall)

TheForge TSA Approved Cable Luggage Locks are an overall great brand of best luggage locks for international travel with many features.

My favorite feature is the TSA re-lock function. With the Forge TSA Approved Cable Luggage Locks, the agent has to re-lock your suitcase to remove their master key. Given that your bag doesn’t remain unlocked after any sort of inspection.

This lock complies with regulations with Travel Sentry, a global brand that is internationally recognized by the TSA and other airport security agencies.

The Forge TSA Approved Cable Luggage Lock is my overall choice of the best TSA approved luggage locks.

• Resettable combination
• TSA needs to relock after the inspection
• Veteran-owned business
• No open alert Indicator (A different Forge lock offers this)

2. Talonport Keyless Luggage Lock With Card Key (Most High Tech)

The Talonport Keyless best TSA luggage locks are a pretty cool lock as it doesn’t use a combination or a key – it actually uses a slim card key to unlock. All you do is push the keycard in the slot, and the lock will unlock.

It comes with 4 sets of cards: 2 that are credit card size and 2 of smaller card size. In addition, all of the keycards come with holes to put a keyring through them.

The Talonport luggage lock keycards require no power, and there is no charging needed for these best luggage locks.

• No lock to pick by thieves
• Keycards come in several sizes
• Durable construction
• Smaller than other TSA-approved luggage locks for international travel.

3. TravelMore Best TSA Lock In Combination Orange Cable (Best for Families)

If you are looking for a simple design with several luggage locks, then the TravelMore orange luggage lock is your choice.

This best TSA combination lock comes in bright orange, so it’s easy to spot when hunting down your baggage.

Also, if you have a large family or simply have several bags that need to be locked, the TravelMore orange luggage lock comes in a 10-pack.

• Simple design with a 3-digit combo
• Weatherproof
• It comes in bright orange
• Combo numbers are a bit small

Luggage locks are not only useful for luggage but also can be used for lockers. So, when traveling abroad and staying at places that offer locker storage, use your luggage lock!

What To Look For When Buying The Best TSA Approved Luggage Locks

Everyone has different preferences on what is important or not when deciding on the best luggage locks for international travel, but I want to offer my opinion on the most important things that the best suitcase locks for international travel should have.

TSA Approved And Best TSA Approved Luggage Locks

If your checked bag gets flagged for inspection when you are not around (during boarding), TSA agents have the right to cut your lock.

However, TSA recognized that locks on luggage for international travel could help with this. A TSA-approved lock has a ‘master’ key area where agents have the ability to open your lock and not need to break the lock.

Open Alert Indicator

Some TSA-approved locks have notifications that turn on if the lock has been opened. This is a great feature if you want to know if your bag has been open during your travels.

Reputable Brand Name

When it comes to security, you want to ensure you are relying on well-known brands that have a solid reputation. As a matter of fact, all the best TSA lock brands that we mention in this article are very well-known, reputable brands that have been around for decades.

Multiple Color Options

I think this is a great feature as it makes your luggage stand out in a sea of baggage on a carousel. Besides, it is a much nicer option instead of some colorful ribbons that most people use.

FAQs About The Best TSA Approved Luggage Locks For International Travel

Here are some commonly asked questions about the best TSA approved luggage locks that may have come to mind.

Why is there an extra keyhole at the bottom of luggage locks?

This is the master key lock for TSA agents. They use this to open your lock if they need to during any sort of inspection.

Will Color locks fade over time?

The locks with different colors use durable paint that prevents chipping or fading away and are perfect for the best TSA locks for luggage.

What is better, key or combination?

It boils down to personal preference, but a combination is better as you are more likely to lose a key than the combination in your memory. The combination is great for the best TSA approved luggage locks and possibly the best travel luggage locks.

It was recently brought to my attention that anyone can buy a key to a TSA approved lock. These keys will open 80% of the locks. My take on this is that I prefer to use the lock and take my chances. If someone uses a universal key purchased on the black market, I cannot stop them. But my chances of having secure and safe luggage are better with a lock.

Additional Resources

If you are looking for more tutorials, walkthroughs, and troubleshooting on TSA Approved, here are some additional posts about TSA Approved:

TSA PreCheck vs CLEAR vs Global Entry Which One Is Better For You?

Can You Bring Trauma Shears On A Plane With Tips From A Registered Nurse

Travel With Allergy and Asthma Medication – Your How To Guide

So that concludes our list of some of the best TSA approved luggage locks that are on the market today. As you can see, several options are available, and all of them are great locks that will keep your personal belongings safe.

Many of the locking luggage for international travel have the best TSA approved luggage locks built in, but if you don’t have one of these cases, the next best thing is one of the 3 luggage locks we reviewed.

Happy travels, my friends.

Can You Fly With A Gun? 10 Rock-Solid Tips To Fly With A Gun

15 thoughts on “3 best tsa approved luggage locks for safe international travel”.

A great review on the best luggage locks for international travel. I have been travelling internationally for most of my life so I appreciate information about good luggage locks. It seems that gone are those days of the little brass colored padlocks with tiny keys that were previously used to lock our baggage. I quite liked the hi-tech one with the key card to open it. But I guess, in the end I would probably go for the Forge because it has to be locked again before TSA can get its key back.

Now that we are traveling again, I feel that we have so many places where we want to go. But what is sure is that my husband, kids and I will go to visit my parents and my husband’s parents. So we have to trips programmed. And we would like to have our suitcases locked. the TravelMore Combination Orange Cable seems to be our best option. Do you agree to set the same combination to all the locks? Would it have some negative effect I may not think of right now?

Hey Ann, 

Yes, the TravelMore Combination Orange Cable is my recommendation for families as it comes in a pack of ten and has a bright orange color where the kids can hunt down their bags as a game when it comes time to collect their bags on the baggage carousel. 

My husband has had valuables stolen from his luggage on a trip to South Africa when he didn’t lock his suitcase, so we learnt the hard way how important it is to have a good luggage lock. I prefer a combination lock to having to use a key, so the Forge TSA approved lock really appeals to me. If one does forget the combination, is there any other way in which the lock can be opened at home then?

I believe we should do all that we can to make sure when we travel our luggage is safe because I have come across many luggage that was open. Don’t know how it got that way but I am sure that the owners were not happy. We should secure our luggage with locks that are strong. Thanks so much for sharing this post on the types of locks to invest in when traveling internationally.

Hi Jay. Thank you for very interesting article. I was recently looking for good luggage lock for international flight, but its not easy to choose with so many options on market. Most important thing is to have TSA approved one and I really like Talonport Keyless product. Its elegant, don need a key and price is reasonable. Looking forward to test it in practice.

An excellent choice! Safe travels! 

Thanks for your article! Getting safe luggage is essential when you travel. My sister lost some clothes in her luggage whrn we travelled to Cameroon in the 1990s. Since then, we have been very paranoid with our luggage every time we travel. I have a lock similar to the Forge one and it works for me so far. Otherwise, I also like Talonport because it looks modern and futurist.

What is TSA? This has to be one of the best sites that recommends locks for traveler’s because it’ll help you identify the bag more and theft prevention. I don’t how idiotic people can steal luggage, but hey they do them and you just get the gadget that they can’t get into your luggage. After all your luggage has everything in it and it would be a shame if you end up it getting stolen. A tracking lock would be good too.

It has been a couple of years since I did any international travel either for business or with my family for a vacation. I must admit I was unaware that locks had been developed that allow the TSA, and I presume security inspectors in other countries to unlock your luggage without breaking your lock. I remember that basically after 9/11 I pretty much stopped using locks on my luggage, except I think when traveling to places where I knew theft from your luggage while in transit was very common. I do have a couple of basic questions.

Surely those who are determined to steal from your luggage could also avail themselves of a master key especially if it is just a metal key? I think we all suspect luggage handlers but it could equally well be others who work in airports. Wouldn’t a next step be to have smart locks so every key had a unique identifier and the lock would generate a log entry every time a specific unique key was used to unlock or lock the luggage? Or maybe that is just a bit over-the-top. Thanks, Andy 

I’m chuckling 🙂 Not having toileteries.

But seriously this is an eye opener – the flexibility of the locks working both as luggage and locker lock! Hadn’t thought about it. Which means these reviewed are very hard or are they?

The 3 key combination on these locks are kind a few for really luxurious goods like gold withdrawn from ATMs in Dubai ❤ Other than that these lock ROCK!

Thank you for sharing this very educational article on modern Luggage locks – The Best Luggage Locks for International Travel: TSA Approved. Technology has inproved everything including locks. Finding TSA approved locks is amazing , no more broken locks in the event of inspection when the traveller is not around. The locks provide a certain level of security for all travellers.

This was an excellent review. I travel often and I think I will go with the Forge TSA Approved Cable Luggage Locks. I like that TSA would need to relock them after they complete an inspection of my bags, as I want to keep the bags protected at all times. My mom actually had souvenirs stolen before and that really hurts because those were memories of a great trip.

It is interesting to find that TSA  is not required to relock your luggage after they opened it for inspection without your presence. That being said I must say that the lock of preference from the aforementioned locks is the Talonport Keyless Luggage lock. It appeals to me. The reason it appeals to me is there is no opening for a thief to use for picking the lock, however if they are tech savvy they could find the right frequency or master code for the unlocking of the luggage.

The other two locks are valuable in and of themselves for different reasons. The Forge Cable Luggage Lock for the reason that it gives you a notification that your luggage has been opened or tampered with. The TravelMore luggage lock for the fact that it has a three digit code for the lock and for the ability to spot the orange lock quickly.

Thank you for the exposure of these best luggage locks. You basically revealed to me the locks I have been using are at risk and could be cut if one of the airports want to open the bag. I never heard about the TSA approved locks and is something I will definitely invest in. 

I believe the first option is the best, but I would love to have a notification lock when someone opens my luggage. Do you perhaps have some lock options that come with the notification option? I will really appreciate your help before I start traveling again!

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Pack Hacker is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Learn more

REI Co-op Travel Organizer (Medium) Review

The REI Co-op Travel Organizer works best as a sling; however, it can transform into a pouch or mount onto your tray table, which is handy in a pinch.

Our Verdict

Save time. Get access to brief summaries of our reviews so you can browse and make decisions more efficiently.

Join Pack Hacker Pro or, Sign In

• The materials and hardware are durable enough to handle rugged travel
• The front pocket is well-padded to protect your gear
• Having the ability to attach to your tray table is handy for flights
• There isn’t a ton of room or gear organization
• The thin strap can dig in
• There’s no aeration on the strap or back panel

Technical Details

Carry-on compliance.

View 145/145 Airlines

Disclaimer: We take the measurements of the bag provided by the manufacturer and compare them to the allowance listed on airline websites. This should be used as a guideline rather than a rule. Bags can change size as you pack them out, and every airline's interpretation of compliance is different. Just because a bag is listed as carry-on compliant here doesn't mean that the airline will interpret it that way.

Like the Look

Polled on Instagram

Weight (oz)

6 oz (170.1 g)

9 in x 6 in x 2.5 in (22.9 x 15.2 x 6.4 cm)

Notable Materials

Recycled Nylon, YKK Zippers, Woojin Hardware

Manufacturing Country

Warranty Information

REI Return Policy

Full Review

The REI Co-op Travel Organizer plays a few roles, and we’re amped to give them all a go. You can wear it as a sling , attach it to your tray table, and use it as an organizer inside your pack. Some of our favorite gear can do multiple things, saving money and space in your bag. However, just because something can do something doesn’t mean it’ll do it well. Because of this, we’re excited to see how this crossbody bag performs. Let’s dive in!

External Components

The primary material that we’re working with is recycled nylon, which is bluesign® approved. This means it’s certified sustainably sourced, which we’re here for. This is the norm for REI Co-op products, so you can confidently shop as an environmentally-friendly traveler! At the time of writing, the pack only comes in black. We dig the look, but we wish more options were available.

The zippers are from YKK, which is a good sign. YKK makes some of the best zippers in the business, and these are no exception. They’re smooth and easy to operate. We’ve had no issues with them splitting or popping open—YKK’s image remains untarnished, at least at the time of writing!

The buckle on the strap is a small magnetic one from Woojin. It’s pretty easy to get used to; however, if you have large hands, you may struggle with it. Even with bigger flanges, it’s still manageable, just not optimal.

There’s a handle on the side of the pack, which makes carrying it easy unless you’ve got large hands, in which case you might struggle. Your whole hand won’t fit through the loop, but you can stick a couple of fingers through, and it works fine. This is a handy addition because you can stow the strap away and still have a way to carry the bag as a pouch. When you aren’t using it, the hand stays out of the way for the most part. It has REI branding but is small and the only exterior logo. Additionally, you can use this to attach the bag to things using a carabiner or strap.

On the top of the back panel, there’s a loop. You can stow this away, too, so it won’t dangle around when you aren’t using it. This is handy for hanging the bag on a hook; however, that isn’t its number one purpose. Its inclusion allows you to wrap the strap around your tray table on the plane, loop it through here so it doesn’t slide down, and have a mounted pouch in front of you on the plane, giving you quick access to your phone, travel wallet , headphones, and other goodies while in the air. It is super handy and doesn’t negatively affect usage, so we’re here for this addition.

As we briefly mentioned, you can stow the strap as well. There’s a slit on either side of the bag where you can slide the extra material after you undo the magnetic clasp. This makes it easier to carry the bag and enables you to slide it into your daypack or travel backpack more easily. With everything stowed away, we like to say that the bag is a pouch potato. It doesn’t look like a potato, but isn’t that a fun name?

The back panel doesn’t have a ton of padding; however, the sling is small enough to where we don’t mind. It doesn’t have any aeration, which can get toasty on a hot day, especially considering the black colorway, but it isn’t worse than other slings that we’ve tested.

The strap is relatively thin; however, this isn’t a huge issue due to the sling’s size. It may dig in a little if you wear a thin shirt or tank top. That said, we haven’t had this issue so far.

You can wear this as a crossbody or as a waist pack, but it feels more natural as a crossbody. That said, it’s nice to have the option to switch if you need or want to.

If you’re looking for an all-encompassing harness system, this isn’t the crossbody for you. However, it’s comfortable and easy to pop on and off in most situations, so we dig it as a travel companion.

Inside The Travel Organizer

There’s one secondary compartment to work with, and it’s on the front of the sling. There’s no organization here and generally not a ton of space; however, it’s a solid size to fit your phone, headphones, wallet, gum, snacks, or a combination of smaller items. There’s a lot of padding here, which protects your gear from the bumps and knocks of travel.

The main compartment is where the real party is, but there isn’t much space here. Remember, this sling only has a 1.5-liter capacity. Still, you can fit a solid amount of gear inside.

On the front side, a large liner pocket is a safe place to stow your phone. The front portion is well padded from the secondary compartment, and the other has a soft fabric that protects your screen. You can slot other flat items here, but storage for your phone makes the most sense.

On the back side, there are two mesh pockets. They’re stretchy and semi-translucent, so you can see what you have stored inside. They work well for a wallet, charging cables, wall chargers, or other smaller gear. If your tech is too small, it may bounce out in transit; however, we haven’t had that occur yet.

There’s a solid amount of space in the middle area between the organizational features. You can stow larger items here, like small over-ear headphones, a compact or action camera, or larger snack foods. There’s a key clip here, too, which is handy. The strap is incredibly short, which we dig. Typically, we prefer them to be extra long or extra short. The former will enable you to unlock your door without taking the key off the ring, and the latter will completely stay out of your way.

Overall, we’ve been digging using the medium version of the REI Co-op Travel Organizer. At the time of writing, that’s the only one available, but because they call it a medium, there might be more sizes on the way.

Whereas it doesn’t do incredibly well as a pouch, the versatility of using it as one is handy. While traveling, it’s nice to be able to use your gear for more than one thing, and, for us, that puts REI’s Travel Organizer in high regard!

Usage Timeline

Condition: Excellent

• The materials feel durable and are sustainably sourced
• No issues with the hardware so far
• There’s one loose thread
• The materials are durable and sustainably sourced
• We’ve had no issues with the hardware; the zippers and buckles have held up well
• The strap is thin but comfortable enough for the sling’s size

Get your questions about the REI Co-op Travel Organizer (Medium) answered from our team and the Pro Community right here on the page. Plus, join discussions with other members about gear, guides, and more.

Sign up to get our 5 Minimalist Travel Hacks Guide. Plus, a weekly digest of our newest content in the newsletter.

We’ve teamed up with Peak Design to give away a selection of top travel gear! Check it out →

11 Best TSA-Approved Locks for Travel

We take pride in providing authentic travel recommendations based on our own experiences such as unique images and perspectives. We may earn a commission when you purchase a product or book a reservation. Learn more ›

Written by Alex Kroeger

Are you planning your next trip and wondering how to lock your luggage securely? Well, don’t get stressed out. Here are the best TSA-approved locks to protect your stuff while traveling.

Whether you want to visit London or Paris , traveling is always fun. But, the whole experience can be ruined if you lose or misplace some of your stuff during the trip. You never know who you’ll encounter, where you’re going, or how safe the place is.

Protecting your valuables with TSA luggage locks is necessary to ensure the journey is fulfilling. It’s always better to be safe than sorry. For this reason, you must carry luggage locks that protect your luggage against snoopers and thieves.

Over the past few years, luggage locks have significantly evolved, with many quality locks available in the market. Lucky for you, we have come up with a list of the best TSA-approved locks, which will ensure the safety of your belongings during your entire trip.

Best TSA-Approved Locks for Travel

1. master lock tsa combination luggage lock.

We recommend the Master Lock TSA Combination Luggage Lock for travelers looking for a TSA-approved lock with a convenient combination feature and durability. The Master Lock 4688D is a reliable luggage lock designed to make traveling more secure without causing any hassle during TSA inspections.

The lock’s metal body ensures durability, while the vinyl-covered flexible braided steel shackle provides resistance against abuse from baggage handling equipment. This lock is ideal for those who want a hassle-free, keyless security option for their luggage and backpacks .

One notable feature of this lock is the ability to set your three-digit combination. This means you won’t have to worry about keeping track of a key during your travels. However, be aware that dial precision is required when unlocking, and accidental combination changes are possible if you release the button during the setting process. This lock offers great value for its price.

• TSA-approved for easy inspection
• Set your combination for convenience
• Durable metal body with a vinyl-covered flexible braided steel shackle
• The cable length might be too long for some users
• Dial precision is needed for unlocking
• Accidental combination changes are possible during setting

2. Forge TSA Approved Cable Luggage Locks, 4 Pack

Forge’s TSA-approved cable luggage locks offer a durable and versatile solution for securing your belongings while traveling. The Forge TSA-approved cable luggage locks are designed to withstand rough handling and provide a reliable way to secure your luggage.

With an easy-to-use lever mechanism, setting and changing the 3-digit combination is a breeze. The cable lock offers flexibility that traditional lock shackles can’t handle, making it easy to thread through standard-sized zippers and hard case lock holes.

Besides suitcases and luggage, these versatile locks can be used on briefcases, gym lockers, purses, backpacks, or laptop bags, providing versatility for your security needs. With their lifetime guarantee, it’s worth considering these locks for your travel security needs.

• Most durable TSA-recognized and accepted lock
• Easy-to-set 3-digit combination
• Flexible cable lock for diverse situations
• The cable may be too thin for some preferences
• No key option for added security
• Limited to only 3-digit combinations

3. Master Lock TSA Luggage Locks

We recommend the Master Lock TSA Luggage Locks for those who seek a convenient essential lock set that offers basic luggage security and prevents damage from TSA inspections. The Master Lock TSA Luggage Locks come in a pack of four, making them an excellent choice for travelers with multiple bags or families.

These locks are specifically designed for backpacks, bags, briefcases, and luggage. Constructed from a solid metal body and featuring a steel shackle, these locks provide an added level of security, protecting your belongings from opportunistic thieves. While they may not be enough to thwart a determined criminal, they deter casual luggage tampering.

• TSA approved for hassle-free airport security checks
• Solid metal body and steel shackle for cut resistance
• Convenient for multi-luggage travel with a single key for all locks
• May not deter determined thieves
• Small size and potentially flimsy feel
• It could be difficult to unlock initially without lubrication

4. Fosmon TSA Accepted Cable Luggage Locks

These Fosmon TSA-approved luggage locks are excellent for secure and worry-free travel experiences. Fosmon’s luggage locks provide peace of mind during travel by allowing TSA agents to check your luggage without damaging the locks.

With a 3-digit combination, the locks are easily resettable and offer keyless convenience, eliminating the worry of losing a key. The zinc alloy body and steel cable ensure durability, while the cable’s flexibility makes these locks suitable for numerous applications, including backpacks, suitcases, and lockers.

The locks’ easy-to-read dials and versatile design make them a solid choice for travelers seeking security, convenience, and reliability.

• TSA accepted hassle-free inspections
• Durable and flexible with zinc alloy body and steel cable
• Versatile and easy to use with a 3-digit combination
• The release button may allow accidental unlocking
• Not the highest level of security with only three digits

See Related : Cheap Destinations to Explore

5. BV TSA Approved Luggage Travel Lock

This BV TSA Approved Luggage Travel Lock is a reliable and secure option for protecting your belongings during travel. The keyless combination lock system is convenient and easy to use, offering 1,000 combinations to ensure your belongings’ safety.

The lock is also TSA-accepted, which means that the TSA agents can open and inspect your luggage without breaking your lock. Given its pros and cons, we recommend considering this lock for your travel security needs, but you must consider the potential limitations.

For those who love traveling , these BV travel locks are excellent for safeguarding your belongings. The locks will ensure that you travel in style and comfort . You can choose from eight available colors depending on your preference. BV travel locks are an incredible choice for family vacations or business travel.

• Keyless combination lock – hassle-free with 1,000 possible combinations
• Versatile usage – suitable for luggage, gym lockers, and more
• It may be susceptible to cutting by wire cutters
• Instructions for setting combination could be clearer
• Potential issues with durability over time

See Related:  Best Travel Toothbrushes for the Road

6. Black 4 Pack TSA Approved Travel Luggage Locks by Forge

This Forge travel lock is made from solid zinc alloy and hardened steel for the shackles. It comes as a pack of four, with simple-design keys that can open each. These are among the best TSA-approved locks that can fit almost anywhere, including luggage bags, travel purses , gym lockers, wheeled backpacks, or laptop computer bags.

One fantastic feature of these locks is that when an agent opens it, they must lock it back to remove the key. This feature ensures that your luggage is properly locked after inspection.

• Durable and TSA-approved
• Unique security feature with an advanced dimple key and hardened steel tumbler system
• Must be relocked to remove the key, ensuring luggage remains locked
• Versatile use for various items and locations
• It may be more expensive than other TSA-approved locks
• Keys might be easy to misplace, leading to inconvenience

See Related: Travel Size Cologne for Trips

7. 4 Digit Combination Padlocks with a Hardened Steel Shackle by Anvil

This highly-rated set of four TSA-approved baggage locks is ideal for family travel. These luggage locks allow you to seamlessly set a four-digit combination to protect your luggage against theft or any loss during transit.

Besides their sturdy zinc alloy bodies, the locks also come with hardened steel shackles that are pretty hard to break. This helps keep your stuff secure throughout your journey, including any inspection at the airports and your stay in the hotels .

• TSA-approved and secure with a 4-digit combination
• Sturdy construction with zinc alloy body and hardened steel shackle
• Lifetime warranty
• Easy to change the combination
• Potential difficulty in setting or remembering the 4-digit combination
• Bulkier than other lock options, potentially taking up more space on luggage

See Related : Best Travel Hangers for Trips

8. 2 Pack TSA Approved Luggage Locks For Travel by TravelMore

This is another set of unique locks that are pretty sturdy and durable. If you are planning to carry on luggage during travel, these locks can come in handy in securing your luggage. The pack can include one padlock or a set of 2, 3, or 4 locks.

The tough zinc alloy used to make these luggage locks helps to increase the security level and your peace of mind.

• Durable, sturdy, and TSA-compliant design
• Interchangeable keys for convenience
• Versatile for various uses
• Features a 3-dial combination security system
• The smaller number of dials may be less secure than 4-digit combination locks
• The design may not be as sleek as other lock options, potentially affecting aesthetics

See Related:  Best Luxury Travel Gifts for Men

9. Lumintrail TSA Approved All Metal International Travel Luggage Locks

No matter if you’re a domestic or an international traveler , these luggage locks by Lumintrail come in handy. They help you to keep calm, knowing that your luggage is safe. The steel-coated bodies and the steel-made shackles make the locks unbreakable, thus protecting your luggage from petty thieves.

The locks are also multipurpose, which means you can use them for various purposes, such as locking your backpack, bag, small cabinets, or suitcases. 

• Durable steel-coated material and steel shackles
• TSA approved
• Four-digit security combination
• Flexible steel cables
• Multipurpose design
• Assorted colors
• Bulkier than some other lock options

See Related : Going.com (Formerly Scott’s Cheap Flights) Review

10. Triple TSA Luggage Security Lock by Lewis N. Clark

Like most locks in this category, these triple security locks make it easier for TSA agents to inspect your belongings. The locks also ensure peace of mind as you travel worldwide .

The unique feature that these locks boast of is their triple security features. Lewis N. Clark incorporated this triple security feature to ensure your luggage is safe from thieves and damage.

• Triple security features for enhanced protection
• 3-dial combination system
• Strong cast zinc alloy construction with ABS plastic covering
• Robust steel braided cables
• Bulkier than other lock options due to triple security features

See Related:   Rental Cars You Can Take Out of State

11. TSA Compatible Travel Luggage Locks by Sure Lock

This luggage lock had to feature in this list of the best TSA-approved locks. Why? These locks by Sure Lock have all the essential features to offer you peace of mind during your tour. The Sure Lock luggage locks are highly rated based on price and quality.

• Versatile and easy to use
• TSA search and open alert indicator
• TSA compliant
• Foolproof keyless locks with a preset combination
• Durable ultra-tough alloy body

See Related : Best Minimalist Travel Backpacks

What are TSA-Approved Luggage Locks?

These locks have passed the TSA’s (Transportation Security Administration) minimum security requirements and features. A TSA luggage lock must come with a Travel Sentry logo.

Travel Sentry is the body responsible for overseeing the manufacture and endorsement of travel locks. The TSA-approved locks are made in a way that they can be opened by security agencies accountable for the travel security of US citizens .

It means the TSA has a universal key to open all locks containing the Travel Sentry logo. Travel Sentry was established in 2003 as a security countermeasure and ensures that the locks meet the TSA lock requirements.

Buying Guide for the Best Luggage Locks

We understand the importance of keeping your luggage secure during your travels. That’s why we’ve put together this buying guide to help you choose the best TSA-approved luggage lock. This section will discuss essential factors to consider when purchasing a good luggage lock.

There are various types of TSA-approved luggage locks available on the market. These include:

• Keyed locks
• Combination locks
• Retractable cable locks
• Smart locks

Consider your preferences and usage when selecting the lock type that suits you best.

Lock Material

Look for locks made from high-quality and durable materials. Common materials used for luggage locks are:

MaterialProsConsSteel (Zinc Alloy)Highly durable, resistant to cuttingMay be heavier, susceptible to rust aluminium AlloyLightweight, resistant to corrosionLess durable than steelABS PlasticVery lightweight, affordableLess durable, less secure

Consider your travel habits, weight preferences, and desired level of security when choosing the material for your lock.

Ensuring the lock will fit your luggage zippers, zipper pulls, and handles comfortably is crucial. Pick a lock size that is easy to use and compatible with your luggage.

Ease of Use

Ensure your lock is user-friendly, especially if you open and close it frequently. For combination locks, look for those with easy-to-set combinations or large dials. For keyed locks, ensure the key is easy to insert and turn.

How Does a TSA-Approved Lock Work?

A TSA-approved lock has a keyhole at its bottom. This keyhole enables the TSA to open the lock using its unique universal key. This helps them quickly inspect the luggage without requiring you to open or break the lock.

For this reason, using a TSA-approved lock is mandatory to ensure that your luggage remains safe even after the inspection. If you use a different lock that the TSA can’t open, they will break it, exposing your belongings.

Identification

Although numerous companies do manufacture these locks, the locking mechanisms are only created by two manufacturers. These include the Travel Sentry and the Safe Skies companies.

Both companies include a red logo on all their locks to make it easier for buyers, TSA agents, and airport workers to identify them.

The logo for the Travel Sentry is a 3D open-squared-diamond design, while that from the Safe Skies includes a torch and a flame.

Each TSA-approved lock has a unique code inscribed for easy access. Every code resembles a specific key in the set of master keys in possession of the TSA agents. The master keys are only available to TSA agents.

See Related:   Best Travel Insurance for Diabetics

Are TSA Locks Safe?

Although the locks are not entirely theft-proof, they are an incredible way to keep your luggage safe. Also, since the TSA may require you to open your suitcase to inspect what is inside, having a TSA-approved lock ensures that they can do so and leave your luggage locked and safe. If you use a different lock, the TSA authority will break your lock and leave your luggage without any certainty.

See Related : Travel Hacking 101

What’s Wrong With Luggage Locks?

Locks on bags are usually easy to break off. I have seen this happen before. A thief was trying to get into a bag in a train station but couldn’t. He punched the lock with an ice pick and broke it, so everyone could see what was inside the bag.

Locks are easy to grab. Lift the suitcase by the handle and yank. This is one of the main reasons that I never trust them. If both of my locks are off, someone can go in my suitcase and steal my precious belongings without breaking anything.

Types of Luggage Locks

Some locks for luggage are pinned to the suitcase handle with a longer strap, and others can be locked around the luggage’s zipper so that they don’t get detached.

Some locks use keys like a traditional lock on your front door, but some have combination codes. For the more common locks, there is usually a tiny hole on one side of the lock that you can push something into to open it.

Combination Lock

Combination locks are like the ones used for bicycles or school lockers; they have a combination code to open them. To open combination locks, spin until the numbers line up and the lock opens. If you make a mistake, there are usually arrows that show you which direction to turn in to fix your error.

Combination locks can use numbers from 0 to 9. Some locks have more than a three-digit combination. But some only have one or two numbers. These are easier to crack because you only need to try those a few times.

Key locks are just like the ones used for your front door. Just push down on the shank, and the cylinder will pop up, allowing you to turn and unlock it.

One of the most common types of padlocks, a pin lock, is generally used for securing gym bags and toolboxes. The differentiator between them and key locks is that keys cannot be inserted into them, which can be problematic if you are trying to pick them.

A cable lock has a metal loop, while a key lock has a plastic shank that goes into a hole on one side of the cable lock. Be careful if you’re checking your baggage onto an airplane because it’s common for baggage handlers to cut off locks when they don’t have the right tools. So after you see them put your bags on the conveyor belt, look them over to make sure they’re still there.

Traveling can become a headache when you constantly think about your luggage’s security. But with these impressive locks, you can relax knowing your luggage is safe.

And although the locks are not entirely theft-proof, they offer considerable peace of mind during travel. You are sure that even after the luggage has been checked, it will remain safe as a locked bag. Our list of the best TSA-approved locks offers you a variety of locks that have been tried, used, and passed the test.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What are tsa-approved locks.

TSA-approved locks are locks that the TSA approves. When agents go through your luggage, they can unlock your lock using their master key and relock it for you. This is done so that they can inspect without damaging the contents of your luggage.

Can I use non-approved locks during air travel?

You can use any lock during air travel, but it needs to have the ability for a TSA Master Key. The TSA Master Key is a master set of two keys that can unlock any lock. Every TSA agent has one for when they want to access your luggage.

Where can I buy a TSA-approved luggage lock?

A TSA-approved luggage lock is a particular type of lock that is typically made out of metal and has a key. This allows the TSA to open the lock to inspect your luggage for explosives or other dangerous materials. You should be able to find these locks at most stores that sell luggage or any reputable online retailer, such as Amazon or Target.

Related Reviews

• Earplanes Review
• Booking.com Review
• HotelTonight Review
• Delta Air Lines Review
• Away Luggage Review

Related Resources

• Best Travel Makeup Kits for Trips
• GetYourGuide vs. Viator
• What is a Passport/Travel Document Number?
• Best Travel Credit Cards: What Card is Best For You?
• Best Travel Drones

Please sign in to leave a comment.

• Twitter / X
• Readers' Choice
• Food & Drink
• Arts & Culture
• Travel Guides

USA TODAY 10Best

How do you unlock a TSA lock if you forgot the combination?

December 12, 2022 // By Lois Alter Mark

By Lois Alter Mark Travel Expert December 12, 2022

Using a TSA lock on your suitcase is a great way to keep your belongings safe while making it easy for TSA officers to do their job. But, because the lock requires a combination, it gives you something else to remember in addition to all those passwords floating around in your head. And that means there’s a chance you’re eventually going to forget it.

Don’t worry. We’ll show you how to open a TSA lock when you forget the combination, so you can get on with your travels even when the code escapes you.

What is a TSA lock, anyway?

A TSA lock is one to which only TSA officials have a key. You set the combination yourself and, if a TSA agent has to look inside your bag because they see something suspicious on the scanner, it can be easily opened with their master key. If you use a lock that’s not TSA-approved, the agent’s only way to get in is to cut the lock or the bag itself, possibly damaging it.

Advertisement Advertisement

Many suitcases already come with built-in TSA locks but, if they don’t, you can buy one separately.

How to open your TSA lock and reset the combination

If you forget your TSA lock combination, there are a few methods you’ll want to try to open it. And, yes, you do have to open it before you can reset the combination. Because there’s no standard solution for this, you’ll have to experiment to see which one works for you.

Since different locks require different processes, the most effective first step may be to call the luggage or lock company itself (or check their website) for brand-specific instructions.

Travel Sentry, whose red diamond logo certifies that a lock is TSA-approved, recommends trying every possible combination from 000-999, starting with 000, 001, 002 … and working your work to 999. Although, admittedly, this seems time-consuming, they assure it should take 30 minutes or less, especially if the first number is a 0, 1 or 2 (something to keep in mind when you’re coming up with a new combination).

If the idea of that is overwhelming and your luggage features a built-in TSA lock, you can try this:

• Use a safety pin to locate the metal or plastic cylinder on the right side of the first dial. The flashlight and camera on your phone can help you zoom in on it.
• Turn the dial and, with the safety pin, look for an indentation or gap in the cylinder. Leave the dial at that number.
• Repeat the process for the other two dials.
• If the lock doesn’t open, turn all three dials down one number.
• If the lock still doesn’t open, keep turning all three dials down one number at a time until it does.

Here’s another method that has worked for travelers with TSA padlocks:

• Put pressure on the locking mechanism by pushing the button or pulling on the lock.
• Turn the first dial slowly until you hear an audible click, which signals it’s the correct number.
• Repeat the process for the next two dials.
• When all three numbers are correct, the lock will open.

If you forget your combination while the lock is still open, all you have to do is reset it with a new combination. Again, you may be best off checking the brand’s website for individual instructions, but you can reset most freestanding locks this way:

• Set each dial to 0 so it reads 000.
• Rotate the shackle 90 degrees from the lock position.
• Press the shackle and keep it down while you set your three-digit combination.
• Release the shackle and turn it back to the lock position.

To reset most built-in locks, simply slide the lock button in the direction of the arrow, set your new code and release the button.

Is it really worth using a TSA lock?

Using a TSA lock is totally a matter of personal preference. Many travelers feel safer knowing that their luggage is secure while others don’t want to have to worry about remembering one more thing. The fact is, of the 1.4 million checked bags the TSA screens daily, only about 5% of checked bags are actually opened by agents for further inspection.

Our advice? Use a TSA lock and store your combination safely in your phone for all-around peace of mind.

About Lois Alter Mark

Lois Alter Mark is an award-winning travel and lifestyle writer who also writes regularly for Forbes and Reader's Digest. She writes about everything from luxury cruises and spas to quirky restaurants and street art. A former New Yorker, Lois now lives in San Diego where she's turned into a weather wimp and is still searching for a good slice of pizza. 

Read more about Lois Alter Mark here.

Connect with Lois via: Website | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | Pinterest | LinkedIn

Advertisement

The Best Travel Backpack

By Geoffrey Morrison

A travel backpack easily carries all your stuff while letting you navigate airports, subway stations, and city streets.

After traveling with travel backpacks for years across dozens of countries, we recommend the new versions of Osprey’s Farpoint 55 and Fairview 55 travel packs.

These bags fit everything we need for trips ranging from just a week to months of continuous travel. They come with a sizable daypack and are even airline-carry-on friendly.

They’re also highly adjustable and well padded, meaning that not only can you get a perfect fit, but the packs will also remain easy to carry and comfortable to wear for long treks, even if there are stairs, cobblestones, or narrow alleys in your way.

Everything we recommend

Osprey Farpoint 55 Men’s Travel Pack

The best travel backpack for those with taller torsos.

Comfortable, adjustable, and carry-on capable, the Farpoint has everything we needed for a week, or even months, of travel.

Buying Options

Osprey Fairview 55 Women’s Travel Pack

The best travel backpack for those with shorter torsos.

Comfortable, adjustable, and carry-on capable, the Fairview has everything we needed for a week, or even months, of travel.

Upgrade pick

Salkan The Backpacker

More stylish, with more padding.

This attractive but expensive travel backpack has customizable straps and great, cushy padding. It comes in only one size, however.

I traveled with a Farpoint 55 for years, across dozens of countries for months at a time. In 2023, Osprey released new incarnations of the Farpoint 55  and the sized-for-smaller-torsos Fairview 55 .

These new versions mostly kept what we liked about the previous ones and fixed what we didn’t. Best of all, they’re among the least expensive travel backpacks available. After several years as runner-ups, the packs are once again our top picks.

The front of the main pack still unzips like a suitcase, so you can easily fit and access a week’s worth of clothes and toiletries. The daypack, which attaches to the front of the larger pack, has room for camera gear, daily essentials, and a small laptop (via a built-in sleeve). The main pack’s straps can tuck behind a zippered flap, so they won’t catch on anything if you check your luggage.

The best change: The main packs are now overhead-bin-sized for most airlines. (You’ll have to use the daypack as your underseat bag.) Other notable updates include height-adjustable shoulder straps and big exterior pockets on the daypack. Previous versions of these bags used ripstop nylon. The current one uses a heavy-duty recycled polyester, which held up well during a six-week trip across Europe.

Osprey offers a lifetime warranty.

The Salkan The Backpacker looks and feels like a higher-end travel backpack. The polyester cloth feels extremely rugged, and there’s extensive padding in every place the pack touches your body.

Available in black and lightish green, The Backpacker has nine color options for its exterior compression straps, so you can mix and match based on your preferences—or even change them up. This gives The Backpacker the most customizable palette of any of our picks.

While looking more stylish on TikTok and Instagram isn’t generally a primary consideration for us, overall The Backpacker feels well made, and it has many of the same thoughtful features as our top and runner-up picks, including lots of pockets, smooth zippers, and height-adjustable shoulder straps.

These are offset, however, by a much higher price. Also, the main pack is technically too large to be a carry-on for most airlines, and the bag comes in only one size. (Salkan says it’s best for people 5-foot-6 to 6-foot-4).

The research

Why you should trust me, who this is for, how we picked, how we tested, our pick: osprey farpoint 55 travel pack and fairview 55 travel pack, upgrade pick: salkan the backpacker, the competition.

I’ve lived, worked, and visited 60 countries on six continents, as well as all 50 US states. I spent the majority of 2014 through 2020 traveling. Over the last few years, I’ve done a mix of extended road trips and multi-month international adventures. For all those years, I lived out of a backpack while abroad. I’ve also traveled in Africa, China, and throughout Europe with a variety of terrible backpacks and luggage, so I know what’s best to avoid.

In addition to covering travel gear here at Wirecutter, I write about travel and tech for CNET , Forbes , and The New York Times itself, and I have my own YouTube channel . My first travel book, Budget Travel for Dummies , came out in January of 2024.

A travel backpack is for people who want to travel around the world unencumbered by heavy, slow-moving wheeled luggage. An internal-frame backpack in the 50- to 65-liter range has more than enough room for all of the possessions you need to travel anywhere for an indefinite amount of time—as long as you’re okay with doing laundry once you get to a destination. (If you’re going to carry heavy jackets, going-out clothes, multiple pairs of footwear, or other bulky gear, you may want something a tad bigger .)

A travel backpack is not for business travelers who’d like to maintain appearances, nor is it for outdoor enthusiasts looking to spend six weeks hiking in Patagonia. If you prefer something that rolls, check out our guide to the best carry-on luggage . And if you want something that you can carry on your back for shorter periods of time, that’s business-casual-friendly, and that you won’t ever need to check, see our review of the best carry-on travel bags .

Based on my experience and research, we looked for travel backpacks with the following qualities:

• Fifty to 65 liters, including a daypack: We looked at bags between 50 and 65 liters (including an integral, removable daypack). Packs this size can easily hold everything you need for any length of trip, while being small enough to remain manageable while you’re wearing it.
• Clamshell opening: For extended travel use, backpacking backpacks have annoying qualities, including that they tend to load only from the top and are sealed with a drawstring. This design saves weight and means there’s one less thing to break. But it’s a total hassle when you want something from the bottom of the bag because you have to unload and reload the entire pack. We looked for bags where the front zips fully open like a suitcase, making it easy to pack or repack and find things during your trip.
• A well-framed structure: A fully loaded backpack, even a small one, can easily weigh more than 20 pounds. My old Farpoint 55 usually hovered in the mid-30s, though that included a DSLR, three lenses, a battery pack , a laptop, a 360 camera , and other work-related gear. A fully supported internal-frame pack distributes the weight onto your hips, which are much stronger than your back and shoulders. If you’re going to be doing a significant amount of walking, you’ll want something with a frame.
• Durability: We looked for features to help the pack last, like some sort of cover to contain the straps (for easier storage on planes and trains), as well as lightweight and water-resistant materials.
• Plenty of storage (and separation): I’ve done all of my traveling in the past five years with a 55-liter backpack (which includes a 15-liter daypack). I tend to overpack a bit, but 55 liters lets me carry everything I need (the full list is below) for weeks, or even months, at a time.

Here’s what I usually bring for any length of trip (and this is our standard kit for testing):

• main pack (the command module , if you will)
• daypack (the lunar excursion module )
• pair of walking shoes or sneakers (along with the shoes I’m wearing)
• five shirts, one pair of shorts, one pair of jeans (not shown because I wear them in transit), one merino wool underlayer
• warm hat (because my head lacks insulation)
• five pairs of underwear, five pairs of socks, one extra T-shirt for laundry day, one bathing suit (I really recommend packing cubes )
• rain jacket in an Eagle Creek bag
• various adapters , camera batteries, chargers, etc.
• various toiletries, vitamins, etc.
• Osprey rain cover
• razor, toothbrush, toothpaste, etc.
• well-worn flip-flops
• travel towel
• portable Bluetooth speaker
• prescription dive mask
• merino wool jacket
• inflatable pillow
• smartwool half-zip midlayer
• sun hat (because my head hates sun)
• extra travel adapter for daypack (when the daypack is my carry-on)
• pen (vital!)
• a small laptop (a 15-inch MacBook fits in all of our picks)
• GoPro batteries and filters
• earplugs and noise-cancelling headphones
• Writer Emergency Pack
• USB battery pack #1
• USB battery pack #2
• backup headphones
• iPod Classic (because you can’t always stream music)
• USB charger
• Sigma 30 mm f1.4 (with a wireless mouse to its right)

For our first version of this guide in 2016, we narrowed our choices to 11 possible contenders. For that initial round of testing, I poked and prodded the different packs to sort out whether they had any obvious flaws or issues. I had adults of various sizes try each pack to get a sense of what short and tall people preferred.

For each subsequent update, including this one, I tested with similar methods whatever new or substantially redesigned packs were available. In between updates, I took one of our picks on some extended travels.

The Osprey Fairview 55 and the nearly identical Osprey Farpoint 55 have been one of our picks since the first version of this guide came out in 2016. (The Fairview is for people with 15- to 19-inch torsos, as measured from the top of your hip bone to your C7 vertebra, the one that sticks out when you press your chin to your chest. The Farpoint is for those with torsos from 17 to 22 inches long.) They’re now our top picks again, and here’s why.

You can carry them on the plane. Once you detach the daypacks, the main packs are now carry-on-sized, making them the most versatile travel backpack we’ve tested. Interestingly, the total capacity remains roughly the same as those of our other picks—that is, we were able to stow the same amount of clothing in this bag as we could in the REI Co-op packs (our former runner-up pick) and the Salkan . The daypack, in this case, would count as your personal item—on most airlines, this would mean you couldn’t also bring a large purse or a briefcase.

Or check your bag—your choice. The shoulder straps can be secured behind a zippered panel, so if you want to check the bag or put it in a packed luggage compartment on a train or bus, they won’t catch on anything. Doing this essentially turns the main pack temporarily into a duffle bag, complete with sturdy and well-padded handles on the top and side.

They’re adjustable. Like our other picks, the main pack has height-adjustable shoulder straps. This crucial feature lets you get an all-important personalized fit that makes carrying the pack for any length of time far easier. The straps were padded enough for our testers’ comfort (though not as cushy as the Salkan’s, and slightly less so than the REI Co-op’s).

They have comfortable, easy-to-use daypacks. The daypacks are roughly the same size, or a little larger, than those of our other picks, something travelers who plan to cart lots of camera gear or other daily essentials will appreciate. The top of the shoulder straps connect to form a sturdy handle, which is extremely, ahem, handy. Each daypack easily holds a 15-inch MacBook and is comfortable to wear over long treks. There are two large exterior mesh pockets for water bottles . Though the daypack is a little short on organizational slots and pockets, its comfort made it the best overall.

The backpacks are tough. The Farpoint and the Fairview are made from 450-denier recycled polyester, which feels thick and sturdy, though more “plasticky” compared to the Salkan. (Denier is a measure of the fiber thickness in a fabric.) I put the Farpoint through six weeks of train, bus, and airplane trips across Europe, and it didn’t show any signs of wear or breaking.

You can attach a lock, if you want. Unlike the Salkan The Backpacker, both the main pack and the daypack’s main zippers are lockable.

The backpacks come in more color options than our other picks. Currently, the Farpoint comes in black, green, blue, and grey. The Fairview comes in black, green, red, and purple.

The packs include a lifetime warranty. Osprey’s All Mighty Guarantee covers repair of any damage or defect for life—or replaces the pack, if repair is impossible. If you just want to return the pack unused, you have 30 days.

It’s been a pick in this guide for seven years—and counting. I have put my money where my mouth is, so to speak. After testing this 2023 pack, I liked it so much that I bought one for myself, replacing an Osprey Farpoint that had been my go-to pack for years of travel.

It comes in additional capacities. If you already have a daypack that you like, the Farpoint 40 and the Fairview 40 are just the main pack from the 55 (they’re also picks in our guide to carry-on travel backpacks ). You can add the daypack later if you want. If you want more space and don’t mind checking your luggage, the Osprey Farpoint 70 and the Osprey Fairview 70 are slightly larger versions of their Farpoint 55 and Fairview 55 counterparts—anything we’ve said about the Farpoint 55 and the Fairview 55 also applies to them. They would work well for those who want to go with the Osprey but need more room in the main pack for, say, clothes for multiple climates, bulky items like ski parkas, and the like.

Flaws but not dealbreakers

• The U-shaped opening of the daypack is surprisingly small, restricting access. You can’t easily spot things at the bottom or carry bulky items. On the other hand, this does limit what might spill out of the pack if you forget to fully close it, something that has happened to me several times with the old half-clamshell design.
• Previous versions of the Farpoint and the Fairview had large zippers that basically fused the daypack to the main pack. With this version, the daypack hangs off the back, secured only by the nylon compression straps. The straps loop through reinforced parts of the daypack, so it seems reasonably secure, and this new design does let you stuff more things in both packs—but as someone who carries a lot of expensive gear in the daypack, I’m less than excited about it.
• The pack isn’t as comfortable as the heavily padded Salkan. Osprey seems to have prioritized weight and breathability over padding. In warmer climates, though, this could be a good thing.
• Unlike our other picks, the Farpoint and the Fairview don’t include a rain cover. One is available separately, however. Osprey recommends the large size for the 55 L packs.
• The new design is slightly smaller than the old one, as well as being a little smaller than the REI Co-op and Salkan packs.
• Lastly, while looks are entirely subjective, the Farpoint and the Fairview are very much “backpack-looking backpacks.” The dark color choices are safe, to put it mildly.

The Salkan The Backpacker is a higher-end travel backpack for people who want the comfort of our top pick but are willing to pay more for swappable design options and more organization.

It has more organization than our top pick. The capacity of the main pack is 45 liters, basically the same as that of our main picks . It has more organization and compartments than the Osprey packs, however. There are two large water-bottle compartments on either side and a laptop compartment inside, as well as several other small, zippered compartments. In addition to the main zippered hatch, the top opens with a drawstring like a hiking backpack, allowing fast access or storage. This drawstring design does allow you to stuff a bit more into the pack than the Osprey packs. However, the main pack is technically too tall to be a carry-on for most airlines.

It has the best padding. The shoulder straps are well padded—the best I’ve seen—and height adjustable. The back panel and hip straps are generously padded, too. All this does make the pack nearly twice as heavy as the Osprey, though we’re talking only a few pounds (under 8 pounds compared with the Farpoint’s 4-plus pounds). For reference, the Farpoint, fully loaded with all my clothes, heavy camera gear, and so on, was around 35 pounds, including the bag itself.

You can customize it. The pack is available in two main colors: black and light green. In addition, the straps have complementary color options, including orange (shown above), pink, and maroon, plus five other choices. This allows for more personalization and flair compared to the Osprey packs. Salkan also sells several accessories to go with The Backpacker, such as packing cubes, water bottles, and a laundry bag that attaches to the inside of the main pack.

It’s sturdy—but has not-so-great attachments. The bag’s 900-denier polyester fabric (even stronger than our top pick’s 450-denier fabric) is extremely strong and should resist rips or tears. What zippers The Backpacker has run smoothly, but the design oddly eschews them in key places. While the main compartment has a zipper, as do multiple smaller compartments, the main and daypack’s top openings do not, using drawstrings and a flap instead. These flaps are secured with aluminum “G”-shaped hooks (Salkan calls them buckles) that slide into nylon straps. The hooks feel nice in your hand and could well last longer than the plastic clips on the Osprey packs. However, connecting them takes a few moments longer than using a clip or zipper would—time that adds up. They also feel less secure, like they could slide loose under load and movement. (These hooks are also what connect the daypack to the main pack.)

It has a great warranty. Salkan has a “ ‘No Landfill’ Lifetime Guarantee ”: “If there is something wrong with your backpack that shouldn’t be, then we’ll try to repair it, and if we can’t, we’ll replace it.” In addition, the company has a 100-day trial period within which you can return or exchange the pack if you don’t like it.

But it’s pricey. The Backpack costs much more than the Osprey acks. While it’s arguably better-looking, this doesn’t add much functional difference. The pack’s comfortable, but so are the others. It’s adjustable, but so are the others. It does come with a rain cover—Osprey’s costs $40. Is the Salkan’s extra cost and organization worth the better aesthetics? That’s not for me to say.

And we couldn’t attach a lock. There’s no way to lock either the main pack or the daypack. There’s no way to attach a lock to the “G” hooks. The nylon drawstrings at the main pack’s top opening, as well as the daypack’s, offer no practical way of attaching a lock. For such a well-designed and feature-rich pack, this is a surprising oversight. Is this a dealbreaker? Probably not, at least for most people. With the daypack buckled and the drawstring closed, it’s highly unlikely someone could reach in while you’re wearing it without you noticing. However, I frequently leave my pack in luggage rooms at hotels or the occasional hostel without lockers, and not being able to lock it when it’s out of sight would concern me.

This is not a comprehensive list of everything we tested in previous iterations of this guide—just what’s still available.

During our research, we checked out a number of companies that make great packs, but none of those packs met all of our criteria. In most cases this was because the company specialized in top-loading bags, bags with wheels, bags that were too big, or very large bags that didn’t include daypacks. These companies included Black Diamond, Berghaus, Dakine, Eagle Creek, eBags, EMS, Ferrino, Gregory, High Sierra, Kathmandu, Kelty, Minaal, MEI, The North Face, Ortovox, Outdoor Research, Patagonia, Rick Steves, Thule, Timbuk2, and Victorinox.

The REI Co-op Ruckpack 60+ Recycled Travel Pack (which came in men’s and women’s versions) had been our runner-up pick, but this largest size of the pack has been discontinued. (Smaller sizes are still available.)

The Deuter Aviant Access Pro has many of the features we liked, but its daypack is too small. The pack’s also more expensive than our top picks.

The men’s and women’s Thule Landmark 60L are well-made, sturdy packs, with a wide main-pack opening and most of the same features that we like in the other packs. They’re more expensive, though, and the daypacks aren’t as comfortable. (Since our testing, Thule has started offering the backpack only in a unisex option ; it’s still pricey, though, and comes in just one size.)

The Tropicfeel Shelter Backpack is a highly customizable pack to which you can add “modules” that expand capacity or change its use. It’s a cool idea, and the pack seems well designed, but it’s extremely expensive and doesn’t really add that much practical use over our main picks.

This article was edited by Ria Misra and Christine Ryan.

Meet your guide

Geoffrey Morrison

Geoffrey Morrison is Wirecutter’s former AV editor, current editor-at-large, and a travel writer and photographer. He covers action cameras, gimbals, travel backpacks, and other gear. He has been to all 50 states and 60 countries, and he is the author of Budget Travel for Dummies and the sci-fi novel Undersea .

Further reading

The Best Camera for Your Dream Vacation Isn’t a Smartphone

Packing for the vacation of a lifetime? Don’t forget to put a good camera in your bag. We have picks for travelers (and vacations) of all kinds.

The Best Tripod

If you want to shoot sharp photos while using a slow shutter speed, we think the Vanguard Alta Pro 2+ 263AB100 tripod is the best choice.

Wirecutter’s Favorite Bags, Totes, Backpacks and Carryalls

Whether you’re going to school, work, the gym, the store, or on vacay, you need a bag. Here’s the Wirecutter-recommended carrying gear we love most.

I Took 5 Trips in 6 Months. My Go-To Weekender Bag Was This Surprisingly Spacious Backpack.

Struggling to pack for your weekend away? The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L fits so much more than you’d expect.

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Newsletters
• Sweepstakes

We independently evaluate all of our recommendations. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.

• Travel Products
• Luggage + Bags
• Backpacks, Totes + Small Bags

The 13 Best Crossbody Bags of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

From sling bags to camera bags, these crossbodies make travel so much more convenient.

In This Article

• Our Top Picks
• Others We Liked

Our Testing Process

• Tips For Buying

Frequently Asked Questions

• Why Trust T+L

Travel + Leisure / Brian Kopinski

No matter how you slice it, crossbody bags are some of the most versatile bags a shopper can buy. Not only are they typically quite stylish, but they’re also ideal for travel considering their size. There are even quite a few types of crossbodies to consider: there are traditional crossbody bags (think camera bags) and there are also sling bags and belt bags, which can each be worn in various ways. Whichever style you choose, the majority feature adjustable straps so you can customize your own personal, comfy fit.

Luckily, when we turned to our Travel + Leisure team and some additional frequent travelers for their favorite bags, the results were packed with crossbodies of all types. We recommended dozens of items we already own and travel with often, and we each rated our picks based on capacity, comfort, ease of use, portability, and value. The bags below are our favorites.

Best Overall

Baggu nylon crescent bag.

• Capacity 5 /5
• Ease of Use 5 /5
• Value 4.8 /5

It’s extremely versatile and comfortable to wear.

Some may not think it’s the most stylish bag.

There are many reasons Baggu’s Medium Nylon Crescent Bag made the top spot on our list, but the biggest reason is its versatility. We have used this crossbody for everything from weekend trips and amusement park days to running errands and commuting. Beyond that, we can’t get over just how comfy it is to wear. The strap is pretty wide for a crossbody, which helps distribute the bag’s weight on our shoulder — plus the strap is adjustable, allowing the wearer to position it however they feel most comfortable. It’s also ultra-spacious, machine-washable, easy to pack into larger luggage , and significantly more durable than it initially feels. 

Inside its roomy main compartment, there are two pockets to neatly store smaller items like keys, cosmetics, cards, and cash. The top zipper is impressively smooth and we’ve never experienced it catching or snagging on anything in the several months we’ve been using it. It has quickly become our everyday bag, and it’s even unisex and available in a wide range of colorways, including hot pink, brown, a cloud print, and more. 

The Details: 8 x 13.75 x 4 inches | Nylon 

Hammitt Stadium-Approved Clear Bag

• Capacity 3 /5

It’s an elevated version of a classic transparent bag.

It may be too small if you aren’t using it to fit stadium guidelines.

We originally bought the Hammit Tony SML because we wanted a clear stadium-approved bag to take to concerts, but its cute embellishments and versatile size have kept us reaching for it again and again over the last few months. We’ve brought it to sporting events, the beach, and overnight trips, and each time we were impressed by just how much the bag can hold for its size. We’ve stuffed it with our phone, earpods, makeup, and even a Kindle Oasis, and it remained lightweight each time. Its wide, adjustable strap feels comfortable even on bare skin, and metal studs provide a unique coolness. You can grab it in eight clear styles with colored leather accents, and there are even more non-clear hues.

The Details: 8 x 2 x 7.5 inches | Clear TPU with leather accents

Best Leather

Quince leather foldover clutch.

It’s stylish, organized, and can be worn in two different ways.

Though the exterior slip pocket is meant for a phone, it will be a very tight squeeze.

This sleek, slightly asymmetrical clutch has made it onto plenty of our trips over the past several months, both near and far. Shoppers can choose to carry it in its original clutch form or they can attach the included strap to transform it into an everyday crossbody bag. We love that it has two separate zippered compartments large enough to fit bulkier items, while an exterior slip compartment and various interior pockets make organization a breeze. The gorgeous Italian pebble leather feels soft and luxe, and the gold hardware is ultra eye-catching. You can find this bag in dusk blue, cappuccino, merlot, and black.

The Details: 7.5 x 2 x 10 inches | Italian leather, microfiber suede

• PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Joy Kim

Best Anti-theft

Sherpani esprit at.

Hackers and thieves are no match for this sleek sling bag.

It may feel slightly inconvenient for left-handed travelers.

Sling bags are made for travel, and one of our all-time favorites is Sherpani’s Esprit AT. We’ve taken it on everything from weeks-long international trips to weekend getaways and it comes in handy every time thanks to anti-theft features including slash-resistant mesh, a cut-proof strap, locking zippers, and a chair lock loop. It even boasts RFID protection to prevent hackers from stealing your personal information. In addition to those safety features, the sling bag also has a total of seven pockets ranging from zippered exterior pockets to fleece-lined interior slip pockets, as well as an adjustable strap and key leash. The bag is large enough to fit a 10-inch tablet, yet compact enough to count as a personal item on planes. 

The Details: 11 x 18 x 5 inches | 13 ounces | Nylon

Best Water-repellent

Lululemon all night festival bag.

It’s versatile and stylish enough to use every day — plus its sleek nylon repels water.

The magnetic closures may affect some phones and other devices.

We originally bought this bag to use on a weeklong trip out west, but we loved it so much, it has since become our everyday purse. It’s spacious, comfortable to carry, and easy to use thanks to its size and adjustable shoulder strap. It’s packed with both interior and exterior pockets as well as zipper and magnetic closures to keep everything inside secure. A wide opening in the main compartment even makes seeing and grabbing your items simple. We can’t get enough of the water-repellent nylon, which is helpful while at the pool or exploring new destinations in the rain. Perhaps best of all, though, is this bag is as stylish as it is functional — so you can pair it with any outfit and take it virtually anywhere.  

The Details: 7.9 x 3.9 x 8.3 inches | Nylon, polyester

Most Comfortable

Kavu rope bag sling pack.

After years of wear, it still never cuts into our shoulders — and it fits so much stuff.

The fabric fastener closure may not stay shut as well with repeated use.

This bag has been basically everywhere with us over the last few years: major vacations, road trips, flights, the mall, the park, and beyond. That’s partially because it’s so comfy to carry (the strap feels soft and broken-in on the first wear), but also because it fits so much inside. Designed with two vertical zip compartments and two smaller pockets, we felt like we had enough space for all our essentials and more — in fact, we used this while traveling with toddlers and were able to stow several of their items, too. The cotton canvas fabric feels soft against our back and shoulders and it appears to be high quality. In other words, we have a feeling this bag will withstand years of travel. 

The Details: 20 x 11 x 5 inches | 12 ounces | Cotton canvas

• PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Kathryn Standing

Most Versatile

Senreve belt bag.

• Value 4.5 /5

It can be worn three ways and it’s durable enough to take anywhere.

It’s pretty pricey for a belt bag.

We’ve carried this belt bag across our bodies, around our waist like a true fanny pack, and even as a clutch — and we’ve loved it every time. Whether traveling, hitting the gym, or heading to dinner with friends, the Senreve Belt Bag never feels out of place. It’s strappy and stylish like a purse, but it fits a bit more securely, like a fanny pack or sling bag. The microsuede interior feels luxurious and the magnetic flap closure offers a sense of security without adding bulk or taking away from the bag’s sharp appearance. There are only two pockets inside, but we felt that was plenty for the size, especially considering the spacious main compartment. It’s also scratch-, stain-, and water-resistant, so we feel comfortable getting a little rough with it, even in a lighter color. This bag comes in six different textures and colors ranging from Chablis to merlot.

The Details: 8 x 5 x 2 inches | 14.24 ounces | Leather, suede

• PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Morgan Ashley Parker

Best Organization

Baggallini everywhere bagg.

• Capacity 4 /5

It’s packed with pockets.

The spacious main compartment can feel like a bit of a black hole.

This is the type of bag that can hold “everything but the kitchen sink,” but it’s still technically a crossbody, so it’s truly the best of both worlds. It has pockets on just about every side, both internally and externally, and the main compartment is large enough to fit a small laptop or tablet, plus more. The strap is adjustable, the fabric is water-resistant, and the top zips closed to keep your belongings safe. It even comes with a removable RFID wristlet to keep your most important documents safe, or to use when you don’t need to carry a larger bag. Grab the crossbody in one of ten colors and prints such as dark cherry or gray camo — or even a black-and-beige, faux-shearling-lined option.

The Details: 11 x 9 x 5 inches | 12 ounces

Tumi Persia Crossbody

It’s stylish as can be and it’s small enough to take anywhere.

The strap is not detachable.

If you’re into bags that are so compact they’re downright cute, you’ll love the Persia Crossbody by Tumi. It’s slim, sleek, and perfect for traveling with just the essentials. We love flying with it because it’s small enough to fit into a larger personal item as needed, but leaves the essentials close at hand mid-flight. And though it’s one of the smallest crossbodies on our list, it actually has an impressive number of pockets, so it’s still able to fit your keys, phone, wallet, AirPods, Kindle, makeup, and even snacks with room to spare. It even has a key leash; three card slots; and a wide, adjustable strap for added convenience. If you prefer to personalize the bag, you can do so with the monogramming feature.   

The Details: 7.5 x 5.3 x 2.0 inches | 9.6 ounces | Nylon

Best Colors

Lo & sons pearl.

• Capacity 2 /5

Between its several available colors and three different leather options, it comes in a total of 21 styles.

It’s best for those who travel with just a few small items.

We’ve been using this purse for more than four years and it’s still finding ways to impress us. It’s not overly spacious, but it’s large enough to fit a few essential items and it’s the ideal size for trips ranging from international journeys to weekend getaways. Designed with one main compartment, two separate zip compartments, and a handful of other interior zip and slip pockets, you won’t find a crossbody of this size with better organization features. The detachable strap and touchably smooth leather are testaments to the bag’s high-quality construction, but our favorite thing about it might be the available colors: there are 21 color and leather options ranging from navy Saffiano leather to cognac cactus leather.

The Details: 7.75 x 9.5 x 3 inches | 14.4 ounces | Leather

Best Designer

Bottega veneta loop camera bag.

It’s roomier than it looks — and because it's Bottega Veneta, you know it's going to last.

It’s the most expensive item on our list by far.

Bottega Veneta’s chic little Small Loop Camera Bag may have snagged our best designer spot, but after using it for the past year, we think it’s the best bag for city exploration, too. We’ve used it in London for a weeklong trip, toted it around the towns of Spain, and have taken it with us pretty much everywhere in New York City. Despite its compact size and single compartment, it’s spacious enough to fit plenty of items like a small wallet, sunglasses, a phone, keys, cosmetics, and more. The woven leather design and gold hardware only up the luxurious feel, while an unstructured strap feels soft on the shoulder. We love this bag in classic black, but it’s also available in white, pink, and navy. 

The Details: 6.1 x 8.7 x 3.5 inches | Lambskin leather

Kavu Sydney Satchel

It’s well-made, reasonably priced, and packed with pockets.

It’s not particularly fancy or fashion-forward.

The Kavu Sydney Satchel may be our value pick, but don’t let that deter you — there’s not much the bag can’t do. We’ve spent the last four or five years taking it pretty much everywhere, including various national parks, multi-week Europe trips, and nights out with friends. Because it’s made of extra-durable cotton, it holds up against unfavorable weather and rough travel. It’s on the larger side, so it’ll fit plenty of items including clothing, but it’s also rather slim, so it makes a great non-bulky travel bag. It’s the pockets, though, that keep us coming back to this crossbody: the oversized front pocket holds larger items like travel wallets , tablets, and other devices, while the main compartment boasts several smaller interior pockets for things like cards and cosmetics. To top it all off, the Sydney comes in 26 fun prints and colors.  

The Details: 15 x 13 x 1.5 inches | 12 ounces | Cotton canvas

Best for Parents

Canvelle sling bag.

It’s the most stylish sling bag we’ve ever seen, and it has space for both parents' items and their kids' stuff.

It’s a little pricey for a sling bag.

This is the daily bag we’ve been using for the past few years to carry our stuff and our kids’ stuff — without sacrificing style. While it’s not quite the size of a full-fledged baby bag, it does have the space for a change of clothes, some snacks, a full-size wallet, sunglasses, sunscreen, and other everyday essentials. Because it has a wide, super comfy strap and boasts high-end construction, it makes an excellent personal item when flying. It even has a cushioned back panel, a water-resistant lining, water-resistant back pockets, and a key clip. After using it for a couple of years, we think it feels like an oversized belt bag that can be worn across the body. 

The Details: 17 x 11 x 5 inches | 9.6 ounces | Poly canvas

Other Crossbodies We Liked

A few other crossbody bags almost made our list, but were ultimately cut due to minor issues we experienced while using them.

Athleta All About Crossbody : This crossbody is quite durable and comfy, and we like it enough that we’ve used it pretty consistently over the last few months. It’s just a bit too small to use as a travel bag or even as a commuter bag. 

Lo & Sons Waverley 2 : This bag is made for travel and it’s come along with us everywhere from Cancun to Paris. It’s super slim yet packed with pockets, so it’s a packing dream, but we noticed that after a few years of use, there’s some discoloration on the leather.

Lug Coupe XL Convertible Crossbody Bag : We appreciated that the Lug Coupe XL Convertible Crossbody Bag is somewhat more stylish than the average belt bag or fanny pack and it has a sufficient number of pockets. Still, we feel it’s a little pricey for a small polyester bag — plus the strap closure seems strange for this type of bag.

For this roundup, the Travel + Leisure team gave feedback about their favorite crossbody bags for travel that they already own. We asked each participant to rate their crossbody in categories including capacity, comfort, portability, ease of use, and value. Then, as a team, we pared down the list based on those ratings and our own research. Our team members have taken these crossbody bags on trips of various lengths and have owned them anywhere between a few months and several years.

Tips For Buying a Crossbody Bag

Make sure it fits your essentials.

It can be tempting to go for the most visually appealing crossbody bag you can find, but keep in mind crossbodies are small by nature and if you can’t fit all your daily items inside, you’ll just end up frustrated on your travels. You may even find yourself wanting to buy a new bag once you arrive at your destination. That said, it’s wise to prioritize size over everything else when shopping for a crossbody.

Look for padded, adjustable straps

Crossbody straps are often thinner than those on totes and backpacks, so if your bag is stuffed to the brim, that thin strap may dig into your shoulder. To avoid discomfort in your shoulder or any body part the bag may repeatedly rub against, consider crossbodies with padded, adjustable straps. 

Prioritize built-in organization and safety features

Depending on what you plan on traveling with, it’s a good idea to shop for crossbodies that have plenty of pockets as well as safety features such as zip tops or both zips and snaps for double protection. Multiple pockets mean there’s a spot for everything, making it easier to locate things inside the purse. Meanwhile, safety features like locking zippers, slash-resistant straps, and RFID-blocking technology help prevent pickpockets and hackers from getting their hands on your most precious items.

Standard crossbodies can be worn over the shoulder or, as the name suggests, across the body. More specific crossbodies like belt bags and sling bags can be worn across the chest or back or even around the waist — fanny pack-style.

When worn correctly, it’s harder for crossbodies to slip off your shoulder or be stolen than totes and handbags. Crossbodies also allow shoppers to go hands-free, which is helpful on challenging hikes, cycling adventures, and when there’s other luggage to carry.

Typically, airlines only allow travelers to bring two items into the cabin with them: a carry-on — which is usually stowed in the overhead bins — and a smaller personal item that must fit under the seat in front of you. Most crossbody bags are small enough to be considered a personal item (18 x 14 x 8 inches) and some larger ones count as carry-ons (22 x 14 x 9 inches). But if you’re hoping to bring a crossbody into the cabin in addition to another personal item and carry-on, TSA will likely ask you to pack your crossbody into another piece of luggage or leave it at the airport altogether. Something smaller and more compact, like a phone purse , might work better since it can be stashed in a carry-on or personal item easily if necessary.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

For this article, associate commerce editor Hillary Maglin collaborated with the T+L team to pinpoint the best crossbody bags for travel that we personally own and use frequently. Hillary has been a crossbody fan since her middle school years and currently owns nearly a dozen.

Love a great deal? Sign up for our T+L Recommends newsletter and we’ll send you our favorite travel products each week.

Related Articles