As June quickly approaches, the warm weather and promise of vacation time have us daydreaming about travel. One accessory that will come in handy, whether you're jetting off to some far-flung destination or staying close to home, is a crossbody bag. This style can serve as hands-free storage during a summer music festival, a quick trip to pick up brunch - or as part of your daily commute.
Crossbody Bags For Hands Free Travel: What's a Crossbody Bag?
There's a reason crossbody bags are having a moment They're versatile and functional, offering plenty of room for your valuables, like your phone, sunglasses, cards - cash, and more.
"Our lifestyle today is so active and we're always on the go," says Jamie Moore, Senior Designer at Moore Co., which launched its Avery Crossbody Bag this spring. "[Crossbody bags] give the ability to have everything you need with you and keep your hands free." Made of Italian vegan leather - the Avery offers multiple pockets for organization.
Moore says there are really two types of crossbodies: "The sleek, skinny strap version that tends to hang below the waist and then the more pocketed utilitarian version that hangs at the hip." Both versions have risen in popularity recently, she says - think of Michael Kors' streamlined Hobo Bag versus the roomy Fjallraven Kanken.
Both styles have their perks: The slimmer variety tends to be more discreet and harder for pickpockets to access, while the larger version offers more room for goods and frequently features multiple pockets for easy organization. Ultimately, the shape - size, and style of the bag you choose should depend on how and where you plan on wearing it.
How to Choose the Right Crossbody Bag
When choosing a crossbody, consider what you'll be stuffing inside. "Think about what essentials you want to carry and ensure your potential purchase will fit those needs," says Talia Rinaldi Weiss, founder of luxury accessories brand Weiss New York. Will you need room for a sweater - a water bottle, or beauty products?
Once you've determined how much capacity you'll need, consider where you'll be going. "If you're going somewhere casual, opt for something laid-back like cotton or denim," says Weiss. On the other hand - if you're heading somewhere more formal, look for "leather or satin to lift your entire appearance."
Weiss also suggests considering color when making your selection. While she personally prefers neutral hues because they're easier to style, she acknowledges that bright colors can be great conversation starters and can even camouflage dirt and dust.
"Look for details that make the design unique," she says. Does the bag have adjustable straps? Multiple compartments? Roomy slip pockets?
Insider Tips for Using Crossbody Bags for Hands Free Travel
After you've snatched a stylish new crossbody, there are several things to keep in mind when using it to store your valuables. First - position it wisely. "Try to wear it on your dominant side so that you can quickly access your belongings with your nondominant hand," says Weiss.
This tip is especially important when traveling through an airport. When going through security, briefly unclip your bag so it doesn't set off the metal detector alarms, saving yourself the hassle of being pulled aside for further screening.
While the style is multifunctional, Moore says there are several things you should avoid stowing inside. For example - Aerosol insecticides aren't allowed in carry-on bags but are allowed in checked bags if not labeled as hazardous material (HAZMAT). To maximize weight distribution benefits of a crossbody bag, pack heavier items like a water bottle or tablet at the bottom and closer to your body.
Alcoholic beverages with more than 24% but not more than 70% alcohol are limited to 5 liters (1.3 gallons) per passenger in checked bags and must be in unopened retail packaging. Alcoholic beverages with more than 70% alcohol (over 140 proof), including grain alcohol and 151 proof rum, aren't allowed.
Best Materials for Ergonomic Crossbody Bags
The Peak Design Everyday Sling 3L (V2) is made from 100% recycled 400D double poly-coated and DWR-impregnated nylon canvas. The Aer Day Sling 3 uses 1680D CORDURA® Ballistic Nylon as its primary material, which is highly durable and water-resistant. Consider lightweight materials such as nylon or canvas to minimize overall weight.
According to Wolfpak - the best crossbody bags balance comfort with capability. "This means marrying an anatomically designed harness system to a bag that can organize all of your daily essentials," the brand explained in an email. Look for a crossbody bag with an adjustable strap so you can customize the fit to your body, with the bag resting comfortably at your hip.
The even weight distribution of crossbody bags reduces shoulder and back strain, ensuring maximum comfort even when carrying your belongings for extended periods. To maximize weight distribution benefits, pack heavier items like a water bottle or tablet at the bottom and closer to your body.
