The underrated bag every frequent traveller packs for style and security

Editor’s choice

With its distinctive geometric construction, this coveted bag is compact and versatile, and can be worn as a shoulder, crossbody or hand carry. Originally the brainchild of Jonathan Anderson, the cult bag is lightweight with a secure zip, soft leather, adjustable strap, and is surprisingly roomy; a perfect companion that will take you from the airport to Nobu. Available in eight distinctive colours on the Net-A-Porter website.

Also available at:

• $5650 at Marais

Best investment

Unveiled by creative director Maximilian Davis as part of his Fall/Winter 2023 collection, the latest iteration of the Ferragamo Hug Mini Crossbody Bag features a softer, unstructured feel with a single adjustable strap to wear across the body. The bags compact calfskin construction, golden Gancini clasps, and removable leather strap make it a polished, hands-free travel companion, punching well above its mini size. A further seven colours are available on the Ferragamo website.

Also available at:

• $2925 at David Jones (plum)
• $2925 at David Jones (graphite)

Best for frequent flyers

Made in Germany with grooved aluminium and full-grain Italian leather, this Rimowa hard shell crossbody bag has a detachable strap and fits the daily travel essentials. Bearing the brand’s logo as well as the coordinates of the historic place of manufacturing in Cologne, it’s a signature design for any travel wardrobe.

Best quiet luxury

Compact but thoughtfully crafted in a braided lambskin Intrecciato leather construction, the Bottega Veneta Mini Andiamo features a long braided shoulder strap and perfectly fits your wallet and sunglasses case. A supremely practical travel companion, the woven leather provides extra security and longevity, while newly-crafted gold-tone knot hardware resists tarnishing. Also available in black, brown and ecru at Net-A-Porter. This retro style is also available in a medium size.

Best for the minimalist

Refined yet low-key, the Toteme Leather Shoulder Bag is compact enough for essentials yet versatile enough to wear as a shoulder bag or crossbody. Crafted in scratch-proof grained leather, it’s built for life on the move, whether you’re scouring markets for sentimental trinkets or delighting in a culinary experience at a Michelin Star restaurant.

Best heritage leather

Once a cult noughties bag worn on the shoulders of Alexa Chung and Kate Moss, the Roxanne has since been reimagined for the new era, with Cynthia Erivo as the face of its contemporary revival. The standout feature on the Roxanne is its beautiful leather and heritage craftsmanship, wearable as either a shoulder or crossbody bag. Though slightly heavier than the other bags on this list, its logo-free, punky British sensibility makes for a fun and unique luxury travel investment.

Also available at:

• $3045 at David Jones (brown)
• $2845 at David Jones (suede)

Best for day to night

Designed with multiple compartments and offering ample storage space, the Tom Ford Small Shoulder Bag is a fashionable travel companion. It’s superb leather and luxurious finish and surprisingly generous size gives this bag an edge, while the attached leather straps add an element of safety within touristy areas.

Best affordable luxury

Designed for day-to-evening wear and moments on the move, its expandable side panels, magnetic flap closure, organised interior, and adjustable detachable crossbody strap make the DeMellier Midi Hudson an exceptional travel companion. The luxury London brand also has a devoted following spanning Meryl Streep, Kate Middleton and Kristen Bell, and is available in a variety of leather, suede, grain and raffia iterations.

Also available at:

• $1082 at DeMellier London
• $1139 at David Jones (dark taupe)
• $1130 at Net-A-Porter (chocolate suede)

Best lightweight

Exceptionally lightweight, weather-resistant and easy to clean, the Bao Bao Issey Miyake Prism range is a genuinely smart travel bag. Its Its fine triangular PVC pieces and adjustable strap make it a portable, shape-retaining travel essential that folds flat when empty. The innovative compositions will also add a layer of interest to your outfit.

Also available at:

• END Clothing (various sizes and colourways)

Best relaxed look

This cultural comeback needs to introduction. Reinterpreting the iconic Paddington bag from the Philo-era Chloé era, creative director Chemena Kamali has taken then relaxed luxury bag into a spacious east-west silhouette for those on the go. Good for city breaks and slower-paced travel, the slouchy crossbody is crafted from supple, washed vegetable-tanned leather with a lighter padlock, a single-zip opening, and an adjusted shoulder drop.