8 Best Faux Leather Crossbody Bags for Travel 2025

This is armor disguised as elegance—a crossbody bag that doesn’t just carry your essentials but fiercely protects them. The slash-resistant steel-reinforced straps and 100% slash-proof lining make it a fortress against would-be thieves, while the RFID-blocking wallet compartment shields your cards and passport from digital skimming. Crafted from faux microfiber leather with waterproof zippers, it’s built for urban jungles and international terminals alike, offering peace of mind without sacrificing style. If you’ve ever clutched your bag on a crowded subway or hesitated before setting it down in a café, this one’s engineered to end that anxiety.

In real-world testing across airports, city commutes, and tourist hotspots, the Arden Cove delivers where it counts: security, organization, and compact confidence. At just 6.5” tall and 1.2 lbs, it’s light enough for all-day wear but thoughtfully sized to fit a phone, passport, cash, and eight cards—no bloat, no bulk. The locking clasp system on zippers works seamlessly, letting you secure closures with a simple snap, though it does require a slight learning curve when adjusting the screw-lock strap clasps. While the rigid structure holds shape well, the narrow top width limits how easily you can retrieve larger items like a bulky phone case or wallet. It’s not designed for hiking trails or gear-heavy days, but for high-security urban travel, it’s unmatched.

When stacked against budget anti-theft models, the Arden Cove stands out like a luxury safe next to a lockbox. Compared to the MoKo or LATMAP options, it’s less about capacity and more about elite protection, trading extra space for military-grade theft deterrence. It’s the ideal pick for frequent travelers, digital nomads, and city dwellers who prioritize personal security over maximal storage. While other faux leather crossbodies offer versatility, this one wins on trusted defense and premium materials—a serious upgrade in safety without looking like a tactical pack.

Don’t let its modest price fool you—this ultra-lightweight sling punches far above its weight in everyday practicality. The detachable, 2-inch wide shoulder strap is a game-changer, offering comfort that belies its slim profile, while the minimalist design slips effortlessly into casual and active lifestyles. Made from vegan leather with a soft-touch finish, it feels more expensive than it costs and holds just enough: phone, keys, cards, and even glasses. For anyone tired of bulky purses or flimsy pouches, this is the no-fuss, always-ready companion for errands, walks, or quick getaways.

On test runs—from dog walks to weekend markets—the MoKo proved its worth as a hands-free essential keeper. The headphone pass-through is a small but brilliant touch for music lovers, and the single main compartment is surprisingly roomy for its 3.5” depth. Weighing next to nothing and measuring just 8” long, it sits snug against the body, reducing bounce during movement—ideal for light hiking or city strolls. However, the lack of internal organization means everything jumbles together, and there’s no RFID protection or anti-theft features, leaving it vulnerable in high-risk areas. It’s not built for international travel or crowded festivals, but for low-stress daily use, it’s refreshingly simple.

Compared to the feature-packed Arden Cove or the multi-pocket LATMAP, the MoKo is the minimalist’s answer to over-engineered bags. It doesn’t compete on security or capacity, but it wins on effortless wearability and affordability. Ideal for students, teens, or anyone seeking a no-nonsense crossbody for light loads, it’s the kind of bag you grab without thinking. While it lacks the sophistication of premium models, it offers unmatched value for basic needs—a true workhorse for the budget-conscious.

This bag is a stealthy guardian for travelers who want style and security without the price tag. With RFID-blocking tech built into the lining, it actively defends against digital theft—a rare find at this price point—while the triple-zipper layout and 10-card organizer keep your essentials sorted and shielded. The vintage faux leather has a rich texture that resists scratches and water, and the compact 8” x 5” frame tucks neatly under your arm, staying out of reach from pickpockets. If you’ve ever lost sleep over passport safety in Rome or wallet security in Tokyo, this crossbody answers those fears with quiet confidence.

During real-world use on trains, flights, and city tours, the bag proved remarkably functional for its size. The adjustable strap (20”–24”) fits snugly across body types, and the front and back zip compartments allow quick access to tickets or transit cards while keeping the main chamber secure. It comfortably fits an iPhone Plus, wallet, keys, and a slim passport—ideal for carry-on-only trips or day excursions. However, the lack of padding or structure means your phone can get scratched, and the single main pocket still feels a bit chaotic despite the card slots. It’s not built for rugged outdoor use, but as a daily travel shield, it delivers impressive protection.

Next to the Arden Cove, it’s the budget-conscious traveler’s champion—offering 80% of the security at a fraction of the cost. While it doesn’t have locking clasps or slash-proof fabric, it nails the essentials: RFID blocking, organization, and a theft-deterrent silhouette. It’s perfect for solo female travelers, backpackers, or anyone who wants a stylish, secure bag without overspending. Compared to the MoKo, it’s clearly superior in safety and structure, making it the best balance of cost, protection, and capacity in the lineup.

This is chameleon-style versatility in a single bag—seamlessly shifting from crossbody to backpack with a flick of the straps. The dual-carry functionality is where it truly shines, letting you wear it as a hands-free backpack during long walks or switch to a chic shoulder bag for café stops. Made from water-resistant faux leather, it holds up well in light rain, and the 11” x 8.3” interior fits a 9.7” iPad, umbrella, and daily essentials—rare in this category. For travelers who hate packing multiple bags, this three-in-one design eliminates the need for a separate daypack or purse.

In practice, the O-TBOST excels in multi-activity scenarios—perfect for airport transits, city tours, or college commutes. The smooth zippers and multiple pockets (including a rear zip and built-in organizer) keep items secure and sorted. The adjustable strap allows customization, though the bag can feel slightly unbalanced when worn crossbody with heavier loads. While the material looks premium, the stitching shows strain under full capacity, and the lack of anti-theft features like RFID blocking or slash resistance limits its use in high-risk areas. It’s best suited for low-theft environments where adaptability matters most.

Compared to the CLUCI or LATMAP models, this bag prioritizes form and function over security. It’s not as theft-proof as the Arden Cove, nor as compact as the MoKo, but it dominates in convertible design. Ideal for students, urban explorers, or light travelers who switch roles throughout the day, it replaces three bags in one. While it doesn’t offer elite protection, it delivers unmatched flexibility for the price, making it a standout for style-chasing pragmatists.

This 7-liter powerhouse redefines what a small crossbody can hold—packing surprising volume into a sleek, wearable frame. At 7.5” x 4.5” x 11.5”, it’s tall enough to fit a water bottle, compact umbrella, and daily essentials without bulging, thanks to its structured faux leather build. The hidden rear zip pocket is a standout for stashing cash or cards, and the long, adjustable strap lets you wear it cross-chest or over one shoulder. For travelers who need more than a wallet but less than a backpack, this hits the sweet spot between capacity and convenience.

On hiking trails and city walks, the LATMAP proved its load-carrying prowess without sacrificing comfort. The wide strap distributes weight well, and the smooth zippers and durable PU leather withstand daily wear. It handled rain with ease, and the interior layout—though not highly segmented—kept items accessible. However, the lack of RFID blocking is a miss for international travel, and the front slip pocket is too shallow to secure anything valuable. While it’s great for outdoor adventures, it’s less ideal in crowded, high-theft zones where digital or physical theft is a concern.

Against the Leresas or Sling Bag B0DFQ7KB84, it competes on size and durability, but falls short on organization. It doesn’t have card slots or internal zips, making it harder to stay tidy. Yet, for those who prioritize space and simplicity, it’s a strong contender. Compared to the O-TBOST, it’s less convertible but more spacious, making it better for active days. It’s the top pick for travelers who want maximum storage in a wearable form, blending utility with urban-ready style.

If organized chaos has a uniform, it’s this impeccably structured sling. With four zippered compartments, two card slots, and a dedicated hidden anti-theft pocket, it’s designed for those who hate digging for keys or fumbling for tickets. The lightweight faux leather feels premium and resists water, while the 7L volume fits daily must-haves without feeling bulky. What sets it apart is how every item has a home—from passport to lipstick—making it ideal for travelers who value order in motion.

In real-world use, the Leresas excelled during multi-stop days—airports, museums, shopping districts—where quick access and security are critical. The anti-theft rear zip pocket stayed tucked against the body, and the wide, adjustable strap eliminated shoulder fatigue. The main compartment fits a phone, wallet, and small essentials with room to spare, though it won’t hold a full water bottle standing upright. While the material is durable, the light grey shade shows scuffs more easily, and the bag lacks RFID blocking—a surprising omission for a travel-focused model.

Stacked against the LATMAP, it’s the clear winner for organization, trading a bit of raw space for smarter layout. Compared to the CLUCI, it offers better security and compartmentalization, though at a slightly higher price. It’s perfect for detail-oriented travelers, commuters, or gift-givers who want a polished, practical bag. While not the most rugged or theft-proof, it delivers superior structure and usability, making it the best choice for those who live by the motto: everything in its place.

This is adventure-ready design meets urban edge—built for travelers who hike, cycle, or explore with energy. The dual-strap system (shoulder and backpack) lets you switch modes on the fly, while the 2-in-1 functionality turns it into a backpack, chest bag, or belt pack depending on your needs. With a 70.8-inch back strap, it’s one of the few crossbodies that truly works as a mini backpack, ideal for trail hikes or festival days. The anti-theft rear pocket and durable zippers add security, and the headphone pass-through keeps you connected without compromise.

On test hikes and city marathons, it proved exceptionally versatile and resilient. The spacious main compartment held a phone, wallet, keys, sunglasses, and even a small rain jacket, while the three card slots and inner zip pocket kept essentials sorted. The faux leather is lightweight and easy to wipe clean—perfect after muddy trails or rainy commutes. However, the long straps can tangle when not in use, and the bag’s neutral look, while stylish, lacks standout flair. It’s not the most compact for tight airport crowds, but for active, on-the-move lifestyles, it’s a powerhouse.

Compared to the O-TBOST, it offers longer straps and better backpack functionality, making it superior for outdoor use. Against the CLUCI, it’s more feature-rich and rugged, though slightly heavier. It’s the top pick for hikers, cyclists, and adventure travelers who need a bag that keeps up. While it doesn’t have RFID blocking, its physical security and adaptability make up for it, delivering unmatched performance for dynamic, active travel.

This unisex minimalist is a rare find—a crossbody that looks equally sharp on a woman at brunch or a man at a music festival. The clean lines and neutral colors make it a wardrobe chameleon, while the faux leather build offers water and scratch resistance without ethical compromise. At just 0.75 lbs, it’s one of the lightest in the lineup, yet it fits a 9.7” iPad, thanks to its 15.5” height. With five zippered pockets, including a back anti-theft compartment, it balances simplicity with smart security—ideal for couples or partners who share a bag.

In daily use, the CLUCI proved reliably functional for light travel and urban outings. The adjustable strap (21”–40.8”) lets you wear it long or short, and the multiple carry modes—crossbody, sling, or shoulder—add flexibility. The front card slot speeds up transit access, and the main zip compartment keeps larger items secure. However, the lack of RFID protection is a missed opportunity, and the interior padding is minimal, risking screen scratches. It’s not built for extreme conditions, but for casual, shared-use scenarios, it’s a standout.

Next to the MoKo or LATMAP, it bridges gender gaps and style boundaries—a true unisex design in a market flooded with gendered options. Compared to the Sling Bag B0DFQ7KB84, it’s less rugged but more universally wearable. It’s perfect for couples, students, or gift-givers who want a versatile, inclusive bag. While it doesn’t lead in capacity or tech features, it excels in shared style and everyday ease, making it the best pick for gender-neutral, minimalist travelers.