Jacket with secure pockets v day bag/purse ?

I have used both. The jacket was a ScotteVest. It's fine if you need the extra layer. When it's warm, it doesn't work because you need to take the jacket off. Also, you sometimes have to remove it when passing through the security to enter various sites. I'd say it depends on what time of year you are traveling and where you are traveling. If you need a jacket/hoodie in that place at that time of year, I would use the jacket/hoodie. I don't like carrying a purse, but when I travel when it's warm out, a jacket/hoodie to carry my necessities isn't an option.

I just was on a tour with a woman who had a red jacket, looked somewhat lightweight, that was by ScotteVest. It had an amazing number of interior pockets here and there! She owned one of their vests too and really liked them. I think they are pretty pricey.

What if you took off your hoodie/jacket? Then the security features are no good. I've pared down the items in my purse and now take a small Pacsafe crossbody. It's small enough to fit my wallet, glasses, passport and can still be worn under a jacket if necessary.

Have you tried walking around your hometown with the hoodie/jacket only and no purse or other bag? If that went well and you felt comfortable, then you'll probably do well without a bag on vacation.

During cooler temps, I bring along a vest; usually an Orvis sweater fleece vest, that has large side pockets, plus a smaller inside pocket. It's handy for keeping my phone and my little pouch I carry IDs/cards in. But I also bring a daypack or crossbody bag, unless I'm just out for an hour or two, as I sometimes need/want other things.

A long time ago, I tried the ScotteVest method (although I made my own vest), but eventually gave it up, as I didn't like all that weight on my body.

Yes, a jacket works well in cooler weather. I have a simple Eddie Bauer one, that has a couple inside pockets, some with zippers. It is enough to carry my passport, my e-reader or tablet. I also have a Scottevest fleece jacket, it has more pockets than you can count, works well, but it weighs a ton, even empty.

I on occasion use a small crossbody bag, that works well.

But overall, when out for the day, I try to bring as little as possible, just passport, phone, and a ultrathin billfold with a credit card and a little cash, that's it.

I have a Scottevest fleece hoodie that works fine, both for secure pockets and a substitute for a sweater or sweatshirt. You dont have to walk around with all the pockets full.

Scottevest has a featherweight version now.

I keep looking at them, but I'm not sure I would really use it.

I do have a pair of their Margaux Yogaux pants. I like the layered front pockets, but wish the zippered ones came to mid-thigh so if I put my passport in it, it is on top of my thigh instead of getting bent when I sit down. Might have to look for some suitable fabric to alter them. Also wish the waistband was designed differently - full elastic waist instead of back elastic and front drawstring.