The 25 Best Crossbody Bags for Men and Women in 2023

Fanny packs have made a major comeback in recent years among both men and women.

And while many wear them solely for assistance during long runs or hikes (i.e., “running belts”), fanny packs have also become must-have fashion accessories.

They don’t just offer extra storage space.

They can do it in a way that accentuates one’s personal style, too.

Cross-body bags – fanny packs worn across the chest – are a perfect example of this.

While they’ll definitely give you more room for all of your essential accouterments, crossbody bags have exploded in popularity because they also deliver major style points.

What Is a Crossbody Bag?

Before we go through our list of the best crossbody bags in 2023 (for both men and women), let’s quickly define what we’re talking about.

While any fanny pack can be worn across the chest or bag, that doesn’t necessarily make them crossbody bags. To qualify for this distinction, the bag needs to have a strap designed for the job – meaning it needs to be long enough for someone to wear the bag over their shoulders and across their bodies.

The bag must be able to sit flat against the chest, back, or – if you prefer to wear it a bit lower – the stomach. This isn’t as big a deal for fanny packs that only need to curve around someone’s waist.

So, while a crossbody bag can certainly be worn around one’s midsection like a traditional fanny pack (or belt bag), the two aren’t necessarily the same. A crossbody bag needs to offer a bit more versatility as people usually wear them across their chests or over their backs.

When Do You Wear a Crossbody Bag?

Look, it's your life. Wear crossbody bags whenever you want.

BUT...

Typically, crossbody bags are perfect for adventures, like hiking, biking, or even kayaking. They’ve also become quite common amongst backpackers and other travelers who want to cover lots of ground without their pockets bursting. Many travelers also enjoy peace of mind knowing that their valuables are far from where pickpockets can grab them.

But plenty of men and women also love crossbody bags for day-to-day activities. They’re a fun option for keeping wallets, phones, keys, and more while also adding a bit of flair to any outfit.

4 Factors to Look for in a Crossbody Bag

If you’re in the market for one of these trendy bags, we put together a list of the 25 most popular crossbody bags based on online reviews, positions on other lists, and what they bring to the table – functionally.

To that end, let’s first go over the four traits that most people look for when searching for a crossbody bag.

1. Size

The first thing you should think about is size. You want a crossbody bag that is big enough to hold your things but small enough not to get in the way. You don’t want to feel like you’re wearing a backpack across your chest.

So, before you purchase a crossbody bag, start with asking yourself what you want one for in the first place.

If you’re just looking for a fashionable accessory to keep your cards and phone, that’ll be very different than if you want something to take on your next hiking trip.

Fortunately, we included a number of very affordable options on our list, so if you do end up needing to purchase two, that shouldn’t be a problem.

2. Compartments

Secondly, you want to make sure that it has lots of compartments. Having compartments allows you to stay organized, making it easier to quickly look inside and grab what you need at a moment’s notice.

In addition, compartments can help protect your important items.

For example, a crossbody bag with compartments will keep your keys from scratching your phone screen when you're moving around.

3. Waterproof Exterior

Third, you’re going to want to make sure that the material is sufficient to protect your things from water. This might not be a strictly necessary trait for a crossbody bag, but if you plan on wearing yours for outdoor activities, look for a water-resistant option for the best protection.

4. Strap

Finally, the strap of your crossbody bag is another important factor to think about. Make sure that it’s adjustable to your liking. If it’s too long, you might hit it with your hand and knock stuff out. If it’s too short, it might not rest comfortably on your shoulder. If you plan on wearing it during exercise, too short a strap could actually restrict mobility.

The 25 Best Crossbody Bags for Men in Women in 2023

With all that in mind, let’s now look at the best crossbody bags for men and women. As I mentioned before, we created this list with enough bags to accommodate all kinds of needs and budgets. No matter what you’re looking for in this kind of bag, you’ll find at least one option that fits your requirements below.

1. GoTo Pack Belt – $38

Let’s start with our very own crossbody bag.

We’re very proud of this version. It’s one we designed only after we’d already spent years in the athleticwear business. During that time, we saw what other manufacturers were offering, but we also saw what a lot of our customers were looking for – and not finding.

So, we created it.

The GoTo Pack Belt is affordable, functional, and fashionable.  

Currently, you can choose between two stylish colors:

And, new for 2023, we've added a brand-new waterproof sling bag.

Advantages of the GoTo Pack Belt

We designed our crossbody bag to offer more than enough room for your phone, keys, cards, and more. You can also fit larger items like a passport or even a water bottle. Double zips ensure that your items are easily accessible, and we even included a security pocket to make sure your valuable items stay right where you want them.

While the design of the bag is plenty stylish, we also chose materials that are waterproof, durable, and lightweight. So, it looks great, but it will also hold up to whatever abuse you want to put it through out on the trail. It’s antimicrobial, anti-stain, and anti-stink, too, which means you can take it from the trail to out on the town without worrying that you’ll drop style points in the process.

And as our company is based in Austin – one of the dog-friendliest cities in the world – we also knew that a lot of our customers wanted a crossbody bag that would lend itself to nice, long walks with their four-legged friends.

That’s why our bag has a clip that’s perfect for your dog leash, so you can keep them close without holding on to an actual leash (oh, and we sell our own hands-free dog leash, too).

2. Rainbow Eco-Friendly Everyday Crossbody Bag – $15

If you're looking for a bag that's eco-friendly, affordable, and stylish, the Rainbow Eco-Friendly Everyday Crossbody Bag is a good choice. It comes in many colors and is made with a zippered main pocket and front pocket.

Advantages of the Rainbow Eco-Friendly Everyday Crossbody Bag

This bag gets made out of recycled water bottles. In addition, it's lightweight and has a shoulder strap that's easy to adjust.

Disadvantages of the Rainbow Eco-Friendly Everyday Crossbody Bag

This bag is on the smaller side. If you're looking for a bag that can carry more than your daily essentials, this might not be a good choice.

3. Eastpak Springer Powr Waistpack – $22

If you're looking for a bag that is a good everyday option, the Eastpak Springer Powr Waistpack is a good choice. This bag is made from a durable fabric that is resistant to the elements.

Advantages of the Eastpak Springer Powr Waistpack

You can choose from several colors with this bag. Furthermore, it's a simple water-resistant design that allows it to get used in many scenarios.

Disadvantages of the Eastpak Springer Powr Waistpack

This bag is lacking when it comes to interior compartmentalization. It's also on the smaller side and described by some reviewers as "flimsy."

And while many people want a bag that isn’t flashy, if you want something with a little style, this one won’t work for you.

4. adidas Original Festival Crossbody Bag – $25

The adidas Original Festival Crossbody Bag is perfect for a day of shopping or outdoor activities – including, obviously, music festivals. It's lightweight and easy to access with a decent amount of organized storage. This also makes it a great bag that you can easily wear with workout clothes.

Advantages of the Festival Crossbody Bag  

This adidas bag has a zippered main pocket and front pocket. It also has a back slit pocket for items you want to slide in and out of your bag easily. This makes it extremely convenient, but it’s also why so many festivalgoers love it. You don’t need a lot of space to get items in and out of this fun crossbody bag.

Disadvantages of the Festival Crossbody Bag

This bag is just big enough for the essentials and that’s about it. Again, this makes it great for festivals and concerts. It might even be a good choice for hikes. But for day-to-day activities, you might need something just a little bit more.

5. Amazon Basics Camera Sling Bag – $32.38

The Amazon Basics Camera Sling Bag is not only a crossbody bag, but it can also hold your camera. It can fit a DSLR camera and two lenses.

Advantages of the Amazon Basics Camera Sling Bag

This is a multi-functional bag that can carry your phone, wallet, and keys. It's an especially good option if you want a bag that's mainly for your camera.

Disadvantages of the Amazon Basics Camera Sling Bag

This bag is not waterproof, so it's not the best option if you plan on carrying your camera to the beach or a rainy location. In addition, if you're looking for colors beyond a basic black, you won't find that for this bag.

6. Everlane The ReNew Transit Bag – $35

Everlane’s The ReNew Transit Bag is a great choice for people who want a stylish bag that's functional. It carries the items you want to take on your commute and comes in four different colors.

Advantages of the Everlane Bag

The ReNew Transit Bag from Everlane is made from recycled polyester. Furthermore, it's comfortable to wear on your front or back. It’s pretty much the perfect size for this kind of versatility – switching from crossbody to sling bag with ease.

Disadvantages of the Everlane Bag

If you decide you want to carry this bag by hand, you're out of luck. It doesn't come with a handle. This seems like such a miss for Everlane, too, considering that this bag is so easy to switch from front to the back of your body.

While it does have compartments, there aren't many. In addition, the bag bends with too much weight because it isn't reinforced. Unfortunately, this really takes away from the bag’s advantages.

7. Novum Crafts Handmade Wicker Woven Crossbody Bag – $39.95

The Novum Crafts Handmade Wicker Woven Crossbody Bag is made from natural materials, making it perfect for a beach vacation, summer festival, or any other event where you want a more organic look. Of course, you could just as easily use it for your everyday activities, too.

Advantages of the Handmade Wicker Woven Crossbody Bag  

If you love its wicker style, this bag is great for everyday use. It's big enough to store your essentials, and it's handmade from natural, lightweight materials in Bali. This crossbody bag is another great example of options that are as fashionable as they are functional.

Disadvantages of the Handmade Wicker Woven Crossbody Bag

This bag uses handmade Ata grass, so it’s not as durable as you might want.

And if you’re not someone whose personal style is one that meshes well with a wicker bag, you’ll definitely need at least one other option for running errands, going to work, and handling your other regular activities.

8. The North Face Field Bag – $44.95

The North Face Field Bagis a great pick for people that want a stylish look. It wraps tightly around your body and sits near your hip when you're wearing it.

Advantages of the North Face Bag

The North Face Field Bag has plenty of space. It's comfortable to carry and has a rear pocket for your phone.

Disadvantages of the North Face Bag

This bag doesn't have a strap that allows you to carry it by hand, so it’s basically a crossbody bag and nothing else. In addition, this bag comes in limited colors, with your only choices being vintage white or plain black.

9. Mystery Ranch Full Moon Hip Pack – $45

The Mystery Ranch Full Moon Hip Packis a great choice for people that need a bag that is extremely durable. It's made from 330D Robic fabric. It can be used for work, school, and outdoor activities and will stay in place.

Advantages of the Mystery Ranch Full Moon Hip Pack

This pack has a good number of compartments, so you can keep your valuable items in a separate one. If you do decide to take it off, it has a handle so you can carry it by hand. In addition, the compression strap allows you to wear it so that it's snug but not uncomfortable.

Disadvantages of the Mystery Ranch Hip Pack

This bag is best for people who don't need a lot of extra storage space on their persons, as it has limited amounts.

10. Sealand Core Pronto Water Repellent Crossbody Bag – $45

If you're looking for a solid – but simplistic – bag, the Sealand Core Pronto Water Repellent Crossbody Bag is a great pick. It's made from durable fabric that can withstand water.

Advantages of the Sealand Core Pronto Water Repellent Crossbody Bag

This bag is water repellant making it a great choice for people who enjoy boating and other aquatic activities. It's made from upcycled materials making it an eco-friendly choice. In addition, if you want to wear it around your wrist, you can adjust the strap to allow for that.

Disadvantages of the Sealand Core Pronto Water Repellent Crossbody Bag

There are only three color choices for this bag. This is one of the smallest crossbody bags on the market and it doesn't zip closed, so this bag will only carry the bare minimum.

11. Herschel Supply Co. Heritage Shoulder Bag – $49.99

The Herschel Supply Company Heritage Shoulder Bag is the perfect bag for people who are always on the go and need a bag that can keep up with them. If you want a bag that feels less like a purse, this is a good choice.

Advantages of the Herschel Supply Co. Heritage Shoulder Bag

Wearing this bag feels similar to a backpack. In addition, it has a front compartment where you can store items you need to access frequently.

Disadvantages of the Herschel Supply Co. Heritage Shoulder Bag

If you're looking for a bag that you can wear across your chest – like a typical crossbody bag – the Heritage Shoulder Bag may not work for you. In addition, compared to other bags, the water resistance doesn't hold up as well. While this bag is roomy, it also lets your items move around a lot inside because of the space it offers.

12. Topo Designs Mountain Sling Bag – $59

The Topo Designs Mountain Sling Bag is a comfortable, durable, and versatile bag. It can be used as a crossbody bag or a sling bag.

Advantages of the Topo Designs Bag

The Topo Designs Mountain Sling Bag can hold a lot of things. It’s easily the largest on our list. The bag comes in four different colors and is made out of nylon that's 100% recycled.

It has plenty of compartments to protect your items, and the exterior pocket is easy to access for items you want to get to quickly. The bag is also waterproof and resistant to abrasions and cuts.

Disadvantages of the Topo Designs Bag

This bag is only water resistant, not waterproof, which is odd for a bag that’s otherwise this durable.

But the biggest drawback for most people will simply be this bag’s size. You almost have to wear it over your back – making it more like a sling bag – which definitely limits its capabilities. This isn’t the type of crossbody bag that’s going to effortlessly double as a running belt or make for a fun accessory on your next night out.

13. Moment Travelwear Fanny Pack Sling – $59.99

The Moment Travelwear Fanny Pack Sling is a great choice for people looking to carry a few things when they're biking, hiking, or running. It can wrap around your shoulder blades or chest.

You can easily fit a phone, keys, wallet, and camera in this pack. It comes in five different colors.

Advantages of the Moment Travelwear Fanny Pack Sling

The pack is well-made with compartments that make it easy to access your belongings. It has an adjustable strap and water-sealed zippers. It's also waterproof so that if you get caught in the rain, you know your belongings will stay dry.

Disadvantages of the Moment Fanny Pack Sling

The biggest disadvantage of this bag is that the strap is difficult to adjust. In addition, while the inner liner is soft, it gets dirty quickly.

14. Gramicci Climbing Chalk Crossbody Bag – $60

Did you know that the design for crossbody bags was originally inspired by the chalk bags that climbers use when scaling up mountains?

So, it only makes sense that we’d include one on our list that bears a striking resemblance to its functional forebearer.

While you can definitely see the similarities between the Gramicci Climbing Chalk Crossbody Bag and its predecessors, this bag will definitely make a much more stylish addition to your wardrobe.

Advantages of the Gramicci Climbing Chalk Crossbody Bag

The front pocket of this bag is a great place to store your phone or keys. However, beyond that, you won't be lacking space to store items in this bag. The Climbing Chalk bag gets made using recycled materials.

Disadvantages of the Gramicci Climbing Chalk Crossbody Bag

Even though the bag does have a front compartment for your phone or keys, there is no compartmentalization inside. The strap isn't adjustable, and while the design is unique, it makes it difficult to carry easily.

15. Bellroy Sling Bag – $79

The Bellroy Sling is a great choice for people looking for a sturdy and stylish bag. It's a versatile bag, one that you can easily wear on your front or back.

Advantages of the Bellroy Sling

You can easily get to the front compartment of this bag, and the lining of the pouch is soft, making it perfect for a phone or sunglasses. You can choose from seven different colors of this bag made from water-resistant recycled nylon.

Disadvantages of the Bellroy Sling

While this bag is water-resistant, it's not waterproof. In addition, it uses a magnetic strap that isn't as intuitive as a buckle, which makes it a big inconvenience to use when you’re on the move.

16. The Cactus Leather Mini Sling Bag – $85

Everlane makes a second appearance on our list with Cactus Leather Mini Sling Bag. This is another really good choice, especially if you're looking for a crossbody bag that's about as minimalist as it gets.

Trendy, stylish, and slim, this bag comes in black and brown and is made from high-quality leather. So, while this might not be the kind of crossbody bag you can take on the trails, it’s definitely a stylish choice you’ll enjoy being seen wearing.

Advantages of the Everlane the Form Leather Crossbody Purse

This bag is made from full-grain leather, making it a durable choice for your belongings. In addition, it holds everything you need, including your wallet, phone, keys, and lipstick.

Disadvantages of the Everlane the Form Leather Crossbody Purse

As this is a very slim bag, so if you want something bigger to carry more of your items, this won't be the right choice for you. In addition, it doesn't have the same organization as other crossbody bags.

Plus, as we just covered, this is a higher-end bag, so if you want something you can wear on a jog or hike, you’ll need to keep looking.

17. Lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag – $87

Lululemon’s popular Everywhere Belt Bag is perfect for women who are on the move. The body is made from nylon with a polyester interior. Whether you’re looking for a bag to take on your next adventure or you just want something for your regular workouts, it’s no shocker that Lululemon has the perfect option for those kinds of versatile needs.

Advantages of the Lululemon Sling Crossbody Bag

The nylon is waterproof, making it perfect for the outdoors. The crossbody strap is easy to adjust and its shoulder strap is removable. This bag also has an easy-to-access exterior pouch.

And, it’s just about the perfect size for a wide range of activities.

Disadvantages of the Lululemon Sling Crossbody Bag

While this bag is stylish and functional, it can’t actually carry a lot of items. While it has two separate pockets on the outside, its interior organization is lacking. Many reviewers have mentioned this seems like an odd omission for a company designing bags for women.

Furthermore, Lululemon is always on the pricier side, which doesn’t necessarily need to be a dealbreaker, but for the price tag on this bag, it’s reasonable to expect a little more in the storage department.

18. Vegan Leather Crossbody Bag by Milly Kate – $88

If you're looking for a bag that's made out of unique material and stylish, this crossbody bag by Milly Kate is a good choice. It's made from vegan leather, which means that it's animal friendly.

Advantages of the Vegan Leather Crossbody Bag by Milly Kate

This bag is a great choice for daytime activities or a night out. It's stylish and big enough to hold the items you need. You can from a few different colors and straps for this bag.

And, of course, if you’re a vegan, this probably seems like the most natural choice.

Disadvantages of the Vegan Leather Crossbody Bag by Milly Kate

This bag doesn't have a lot of pockets, which is kind of a letdown given the price. Most other bags in this price range provide a lot more storage space.

19. Aer Day Sling 3 Max Belt Bag – $95

The Aer Day Sling 3 Max Bag is a great choice for people looking for a stylish-looking bag. It's also one of the best bags for people who want one they can wear across their chests or their backs. This one makes the transition with ease.

Advantages of the Aer Day Sling 3 Max Belt Bag

The Aer Day bag has multiple compartments and zippers to help you organize the items you carry. It also comes with a shoulder strap that you can wear across your shoulder or your body.

The size of the bag allows you to carry a phone, bike lock, headphones, and more. It's also waterproof, which is a huge advantage.

Disadvantages of the Aer Sling 3 Max Belt Bag

A significant disadvantage of this bag is that many reviewers report it holds onto scents. In addition, the strap won't tighten enough to keep it on your back while doing cardio activities like riding bikes.

20. State Bags Lenox Bike Bag – $98

The State Bags Lenox Bike Bag is a great choice for people who enjoy road or mountain biking. It’s made with a pair of straps designed specifically for handlebars. That’s a unique feature you won’t find with any other crossbody bag.

Advantages of the State Bags Lenox Bike Bag

This bag is water resistant and the perfect choice for people commuting into the city via bike or anyone who just wants a little extra storage when cycling through trails. In addition, it has two zipper pockets, which are easy to access yet still very secure.

Disadvantages of the State Bags Lenox Bike Bag

If you don't loosen the long strap enough, the two straps intended for the handlebars of your bike will dig into your chest. These straps also don't allow it to sit evenly against your chest.

21. Tanner Goods Canyon Crossbody Pack – $125

This bag is a great choice if you want something with space. However, while the Tanner Goods Canyon Crossbody Pack does have space, you can still wear it under a jacket or sweater.

Advantages of the Tanner Goods Canyon Crossbody Pack

One of the most important advantages of this bag is its versatility. It can double as a toiletry kit when you travel. This is also a fairly room bag, easily big enough to fit an entire water bottle.

The compartmentalized interior is foam padded, allowing the bag to hold its shape. In addition, it has a pocket on the front specifically for your phone.

Disadvantages of the Tanner Goods Canyon Crossbody Pack

The outside is made of waxed canvas meaning the bag is waterproof. However, waxed canvas requires more care. In addition, it doesn't have a handle, so carrying it on your shoulders is uncomfortable.

22. Joshuvela Etna Sling – $138

This Joshuvela Etna Sling is great if you're looking for one with a good number of compartments. It's also made from military-grade materials, which means it’s extremely durable.

Advantages of the Joshuvela Etna Sling

This bag gets made in the United States and comes in three different colors. It's very lightweight, making it a good choice to carry while hiking, biking, or running.

Disadvantages of the Joshuvela Etna Sling

This is a small bag, and it's not ideal for people who want to carry a lot. In addition, the front mesh pocket isn't great for your belongings that are small or can easily become damaged.

23. C.P. Company Lens Bum Bag – $155

The C.P Company Lens Bum Bag is a popular choice which means that at times it can be difficult to find in stock. If you want a bag that lies flat against your torso, this is a good choice.

Advantages of the C.P Company Lens Bum Bag

This bag has two compartments. That means you can separate your phone from items that could scratch it up, like keys. It's also waterproof, and you can choose between three different colors.

Disadvantages of the C.P Company Lens Bum Bag

This bag is small, so it is best suited for people who don't have bulky items to carry. Putting too much in it will affect how it lays across your chest.

24. Microfiber Carson Crossbody Purse – $469

You can carry a lot in this bag and have the flexibility to carry it in many different ways. The Microfiber Carson Crossbody Purse has a crossbody strap that you can use, or you can attach it to the handles of your luggage. The bag comes in navy blue and black. This is another high-end option that definitely comes with lots of style points.

Advantages of the Microfiber Carson Crossbody Purse

This bag is lightweight and durable. It’s also a great bag for everyday use, despite the fact that it’s definitely not some “bargain-bin bag.”

In addition, you can toss it in the wash when it needs cleaning, which is a huge benefit for a luxury crossbody bag like this one.

Disadvantages of the Microfiber Carson Crossbody Purse  

While this bag does store a good amount of items, it's a little on the larger side – definitely a lot bigger than most of the other bags on this list. If you're looking for a small bag for just the essentials, you'll want to choose something different.

Of course, this bag comes with a heftier price tag, too. It’s not the most expensive bag on our list, but it’s definitely a lot more expensive than the average cost for a crossbody bag. While its versatility is still a huge plus – this is one bag that can do it all – the price is still going to be a big turnoff for many.

25. Saint Laurent Lou Quilted Leather Camera Bag – $1,550

If your highest priority for a crossbody bag is a luxury look, it probably goes without saying that the Saint Laurent Lou Quilted Leather Camera Bag won’t disappoint. As you probably noticed from the price tag, this is definitely a high-end bag.

Advantages of the Saint Laurent Lou Quilted Leather Camera Bag

If you’re trying to make an impression, you can’t go wrong with ANYTHING Saint Laurent. This crossbody bag is just about as stylish as it comes if you’re a fan of luxury brands. The beautiful, quilted overstitching on the high-end leather aside, nothing grabs attention like the eye-catching Saint Laurent logo.

Disadvantages of the Saint Laurent Lou Quilted Leather Camera Bag

Well, obviously, this is one pricey bag. And keeping it looking great isn’t easy, either. You’ll need to hand clean it to keep it looking new.

Of course, its high-end features are also why you’ll only be bringing this out when it’s time to look your best – not errands or out for a jog.

The bag isn’t big on organization, either. It’s got room for your cards, your phone, and little else.

The 25 Best Crossbody Bags of 2023

If you're looking for crossbody bags in 2023, there are a lot of options out there – as you just saw. Take the time to do your research and find the perfect choice for both your budget and personal needs.

Fortunately, there are enough affordable options that you should be able to afford two if you want one for workouts and travel and one for looking great during your day-to-day activities.

Start your shopping with us today for activewear that meets both these needs if you’re looking to purchase just one crossbody bag that will respect your budget – and make you look great at the same time. 

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1 comment

Very well written.
You’ve explained it better.

OKI Bering

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