7 Best Crossbody Bags Under $500 to Buy in 2025

If security and everyday practicality had a love child, it’d be the Travelon Anti-Theft Heritage Crossbody Bag. This isn’t just another cute bag—it’s a fortress on your shoulder, loaded with five-point anti-theft technology including slash-resistant stainless steel mesh, locking zippers, and an adjustable steel-reinforced strap you can anchor to a table leg. For travelers, city dwellers, or anyone tired of side-eyeing pickpockets, this bag delivers peace of mind without sacrificing style. Crafted from durable cotton-canvas with suede trim and nickel hardware, it ages beautifully, developing a lived-in charm that elevates its rugged elegance.

In real-world use, the 9.5” x 8” footprint strikes a sweet balance—roomy enough for your phone, wallet, keys, and even a slim umbrella, yet compact enough to avoid bulk. The zippered RFID-protected pocket is a quiet hero, shielding credit cards from digital skimming in crowded transit hubs or tourist zones. We tested it on busy commutes and weekend jaunts, and the crossbody strap stays put, even when navigating packed subways. However, the fixed strap length (max 25” drop) may feel short for taller users or those who prefer high-waist carry. It’s also not built for laptops or large tablets—this is a daily essentials carrier, not a workhorse.

Compared to sleeker fashion-first models like the BOSTANTEN quilted bag, the Travelon leans into function over flair, but that’s its strength. While the FEIBOON bag offers more volume, it lacks integrated theft protection. This bag stands tall as the most secure pick under $500, especially for globetrotters or urbanites in high-theft areas. It’s the only crossbody in this range that treats safety as a core design pillar—not an afterthought—making it a smarter long-term investment than flashier, vulnerable alternatives.

When outdoor readiness meets urban versatility, the THE NORTH FACE Jester Crossbody Bag rises to the top. Built with a DWR-coated fabric and 2.3-liter main compartment, it’s engineered to handle rain, trail dust, and spontaneous adventures. The signature bungee system on the front isn’t just for show—it’s perfect for strapping down a jacket, yoga mat, or even a helmet, giving you instant expandable storage without digging into the main chamber. For hikers, cyclists, or commuters who hate being tethered to a backpack, this sling delivers freedom with function.

We took it on city commutes and weekend trails, and the adjustable strap (up to 50”) proved a game-changer—easily converted from crossbody to waist pack or shoulder carry. The zippered back pocket kept our phone secure, while the internal drop pocket organized small items like lip balm or earbuds. At just 5 oz, it’s featherlight, but that also means minimal padding—your phone won’t be cushioned like in padded cases. The 6” x 8.13” profile is slim, so it won’t bulk under layers, but it can’t fit larger items like water bottles or books. It’s optimized for mobility, not max capacity.

Against the WATERFLY sling bag, the Jester wins in brand durability and weather resistance, though it lacks internal organization. Compared to the Simptech workout-focused model, it’s less snug for running but far more versatile for mixed-use days. This is the go-to for outdoor enthusiasts who want one bag for trailheads, transit, and town errands. It doesn’t have the luxury feel of BOSTANTEN’s leather look, but it outperforms in ruggedness and adaptability—a true all-terrain sling at a fraction of premium prices.

Style doesn’t have to sacrifice substance—and the BOSTANTEN Quilted Sling Bag proves it with fashion-forward flair and everyday resilience. Wrapped in soft-touch, water-repellent PU leather, this bag looks like a $200 designer piece but costs a fraction. The quilted diamond stitching adds texture and sophistication, while the adjustable guitar-style strap lets you wear it crossbody, over-the-shoulder, or even backwards like a mini backpack. For fashion-conscious users who refuse to carry a “basic” bag, this is a statement piece that still organizes your life.

In testing, the roomy interior handled a 6.5” phone, compact umbrella, wallet, and small perfume bottle with ease. The material shrugged off light rain, and the zippers operated smoothly after weeks of daily use. We especially liked how it paired effortlessly with both casual and smart-casual outfits—no need to swap bags for brunch vs. errands. However, the lack of internal compartments means you’ll need a pouch for organization. And while the strap adjusts widely, it can slip on narrow shoulders without a chest clip. It’s built for looks first, but still delivers solid utility.

Next to the FEIBOON bag, BOSTANTEN wins in aesthetic polish and material quality, though FEIBOON offers more volume. Compared to the no-frills higouta mini bag, this is the clear choice for those prioritizing elegance. It’s ideal for users who want a trendy, all-day bag that transitions from day to night. While it lacks the anti-theft tech of Travelon or the outdoor chops of The North Face, it offers the best blend of luxury look and practical carry under $500.

When capacity is king, the FEIBOON Spacious Crossbody Bag reigns supreme. With a roomy three-dimensional build, it swallows daily essentials, snacks, a small tablet, or even baby supplies—making it a stealth mommy bag or shopping companion in a sleek silhouette. The double gold zipper pull isn’t just eye-catching—it allows one-handed access from either end, perfect when juggling coffee and keys. Crafted from durable nylon, it wipes clean easily and resists wear from daily friction, ideal for users who carry more but still want hands-free mobility.

We loaded it with a water bottle, wallet, phone, makeup pouch, and umbrella—and it stayed balanced without sagging. The removable straps are a standout: swap in a leather or chain strap for a night-out upgrade. At 54.33” max length, it’s plus-size friendly and tall-user approved, a rare win in a market where straps often run short. That said, the lack of internal structure means it can gape open when overstuffed. And while it’s water-resistant, it won’t survive a downpour—no sealed seams or storm flaps. It’s optimized for volume and versatility, not extreme weather.

Against the Simptech workout bag, FEIBOON offers far more space but less snug fit for active use. Compared to the compact higouta model, it’s less discreet but infinitely more practical for errands or short trips. This is the top pick for users who need a roomy, stylish, and adaptable crossbody without stepping into tote territory. While it doesn’t have the security of Travelon or the outdoor grit of The North Face, it delivers the most usable space in this lineup—making it the ultimate daily hauler under $500.

For runners, gym-goers, and fitness-focused users, the Simptech Mini Crossbody Bag is a game-changing blend of security and sweat-proof design. Engineered with dual scratch-proof pockets, it keeps your phone and keys separated—no more screen scuffs from jangling metal. The breathable, waterproof fabric wicks sweat and blocks rain, so your devices stay dry even during intense sprints or trail runs. We tested it on 5Ks and HIIT sessions, and the quick-release buckle made it easy to ditch post-workout without fumbling. It’s not just a fanny pack—it’s a performance accessory.

Despite its mini 6.7” phone-compatible interior, it fits surprisingly well: iPhone 15 Pro Max with case, AirPods, cards, and cash all fit snugly. The low-profile chest carry keeps it stable, bouncing only slightly on hard runs. However, the lack of padding means a direct drop could crack your phone. And while it’s unisex, the design leans masculine—fewer color options and no decorative details. It’s built for utility, not style, so don’t expect to wear it to brunch.

Next to the higouta mini bag, Simptech wins in phone protection and ease of access, though higouta offers more pocket variety. Compared to the BOSTANTEN fashion model, it’s less elegant but far more functional for active lifestyles. This is the best choice for anyone who needs a secure, sweat-proof phone and key holder during workouts or outdoor activities. While it doesn’t match the storage of FEIBOON or the sophistication of BOSTANTEN, it offers the most reliable active-use performance under $500.

Organization is the superpower of the WATERFLY Crossbody Sling Backpack—this is the most thoughtfully compartmentalized bag in the sub-$500 arena. With multiple internal pockets, a side mesh bottle holder, and a hidden earphone port, it’s designed for users who hate digging. The 7” x 15” layout creates vertical storage, letting you stack items like an iPad mini, power bank, tissues, and keys in dedicated slots. The reversible strap is a genius touch—connect to left or right D-rings for dominant-shoulder comfort, and the strap pouch fits phones up to 7”. For travelers or tech-heavy carriers, this is a logistical win.

We used it on day trips and commutes, and the adjustable 31”–39.5” strap ensured a custom fit across body types. The breathable back panel reduced sweat during summer walks, and the water-resistant fabric handled light rain. However, the front buckle pocket flap can flop open if not secured. And while it fits an iPad, it lacks a padded sleeve—risky for drops. The lack of external compression means it can look overstuffed. It’s optimized for order, not ruggedness.

Against the THE NORTH FACE Jester, WATERFLY wins in pocket count and internal layout, though Jester is more weather-ready. Compared to Travelon, it lacks anti-theft features but offers better tech access. This is the ideal pick for organized professionals, students, or travelers who carry multiple gadgets. While it doesn’t have the luxury of BOSTANTEN or the volume of FEIBOON, it delivers the smartest storage architecture under $500.

The higouta Mini Sling Bag is stealth mode perfected—a compact, secure, and ultra-discreet carrier for urban explorers and minimalist packers. At just 5.3” long and 1L capacity, it’s built for essentials only: phone, wallet, cards, and keys. The 500D heavy-duty nylon shrugs off rain and abrasion, while the slim, low-profile design hugs your chest, staying hidden under jackets—perfect for crowded subways or festivals. The reflective stripes add a smart safety touch for night runners or cyclists. For users who want maximum security with zero bulk, this is the ultimate undercover operator.

We tested it in dense city crowds and on hiking trails, and the ergonomic 2.5” strap distributed weight evenly, even over thick coats. The multiple internal pockets kept cards and cash sorted, and the mesh back panel prevented back sweat. However, the small size means no room for a water bottle or umbrella. And while it converts to backpack or waist pack, the transitions aren’t seamless—strap reattachment takes effort. It’s optimized for minimalism, not convenience.

Next to the Simptech workout bag, higouta wins in discretion and material toughness, though Simptech has better phone protection. Compared to the FEIBOON spacious model, it’s the polar opposite—less capacity, more concealment. This is the best pick for travelers, urbanites, or gift-givers who value compact security and all-day versatility. While it doesn’t match the capacity of FEIBOON or the style of BOSTANTEN, it offers the most discreet, rugged, and convertible design under $500.