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Searching for a crossbody/messenger bag. What is your favorite?

My favorite travel bags are from Artisan Gear Hemp Canvas bags, but the shop is open inconsistently and I frequently miss those windows. I am looking to replace my large and small messenger bags. These bags have numerous pockets, the main sections zips closed with mix of additional zippered and open sections, and the very long removable strap. The Omni has been great for daily use both at home and traveling. The Omni is great as it is large (11" x 8" x 5" and it can fit a bottle of wine along with my daily necessities!) but it is not stiff, there are no padded sections or framework so it doesn't feel bulky when it is not full. I also use a larger messenger bag version of the Omni as a carry-on. My only wish is it had a strap to slide on to my suitcase when walking through the airport. But size and style of both of these are just perfect for my use.

I am looking for something similar. Suggestions?

Posted by
16028 posts

I have no personal experience with these but I know Tom Bing makes great, well-designed bags. This is the “cross-body” group but you could check other categories as well.

https://www.tombihn.com/collections/shoulder-bags

The shoulder strap on their Omni can be shortened at will if you want to attach it to your roller bag (sliding over the handle).

Posted by
3200 posts

I use Travelon, Baggallini, and Sherpani bags.

Posted by
3961 posts

My favorite travel bag or everyday bag is Baggallini. I have purchased several styles over the years. I particularly like a crossbody bag. My current one is "Pocket Crossbody With RFID." They are well constructed, some are machine washable and beautifully organized for any journey. I have purchased them on Amazon or the Baggallini website depending on pricing. baggallini.com They have a "Green Monday sale" 30% off 12/13/21.

Posted by
103 posts

Thanks for these suggestions!

There are so many independent bag companies now, it is hard to sift through them all. Baggallini seems very popular. I have never tried them before. They have some possibilities. And I didn't realize that LeSportSac is still in business. I remember having one of their bags back in the 80s when it was trendy! :)

I am now realizing how picky I am with my bags. It is hard to find one that checks all of the boxes.

Posted by
19 posts

I have the same LeSportsac bag that Pam mentioned and it has lasted for years and has good organization. If I want something a bit bigger (say to hold a squished up down jacket) I have an old Patagonia messenger bag that was part of their ultralight collection. I love it but don’t think it is made any longer.

Posted by
2 posts

Lug bags are awesome, have many sizes and colors. Lots of pockets and water bottle holders (or mini baguette).

Posted by
888 posts

I have several Travelon bags in different sizes and like them. I've started using them at home as well.

Posted by
6231 posts

I love love love the Tom Bihn crossbody bags - his stuff is so well made and practical and just drop dead gorgeous!

I also like Baggallini - and for anyone else who likes Baggallini and has a Costco membership, you can find Baggallini bags at deeply discounted prices on the Costconext.com page. Just go and click on the Baggallini page and check them out (you will need to enter your Costco membership number to access the page). I just got a very nice tote bag there for a lot less than I could find it anywhere else.

Posted by
7129 posts

Thanks for that info, Mardee!

Mariam, I have used Baggallini for many years, and I am very happy with each one I have used. Also, I successfully wash them in the washing machine on the gentle cycle and hang to dry.

Posted by
3183 posts

I too am looking for a new, crossbody day bag. I need to try things on in person. Is there a store that carries Baggalini or the Tom Bihn stuff?

Posted by
3961 posts

Tammy,
In Seattle area I have seen Baggallini sold at Macy’s, Kohl’s, AAA, and other Travel stores. I have always purchased online finding the best pricing & styles on Amazon or the Baggallini website. There are frequent sales. I look at reviews about size. One time I decided on a bag from a travel photo! Iol. My cousin was in Central Europe wearing a Baggallini crossbody. It was the perfect size for my daily travel use! My favorite.

Posted by
548 posts

Travelon is my favorite for European travel and Baggalini for domestic.

Posted by
3067 posts

I like Eddie Bauer bags.
I've got a good one that is not too big, has plenty of pockets and zips, and lies flat against me.
It's also ok for evening as it's black all over, so doesn't stand out.

Posted by
3961 posts

Mikliz97,
Thanks for the Portland leather Goods website!
The crossbody size looks great! So many gorgeous colors & light weight. I forgot about Molbak’s carrying Baggallini bags. Thanks for the reminder. (I have a weakness for handbags). My husband calls me “A bag lady.”
lol.

Posted by
7129 posts

Mikliz97 & Janis, ooh, I have a weakness for beautiful garden shops. Luckily I’m a state away from Molbaks now! Happy shopping!

Posted by
1970 posts

Janis--I am the same way! I am loving the blue color, but was torn as the kiwi is so pretty too. I like the size of this as it is small, but not too small. I can still put my hand in there and root around to find things. It has a nice large pocket inside that will hold my phone too.

Jean--Me too! We had a great one in OR near us, so when we moved back here I was thrilled that we were near Molbak's again.

Posted by
29 posts

I am planning for a trip to Italy in April and recently found a medium size, 11x10x5 Travelon crossbody bag at Sierra Trading Post. They might not have a big selection though you can find some great prices. I was going to take a smaller bag and I like this one better! It has tons of pockets and room for a water bottle. It is small enough to fit in my RS flight bag.