Why my mom thinks this $30 travel purse is the best one she's ever used
When I pack for a trip, I'm usually focused on things like the best travel backpacks, personal item dimensions and carry-on hacks. But for my mom, the one thing she never travels without is a reliable, secure travel purse. Before a recent sightseeing-heavy vacation in Eastern Europe, I recommended she try the Travelon Anti-Theft Essential Messenger Bag, a lightweight crossbody I'd heard rave reviews about. By the second day, she turned to me and said, 'This is the best travel purse I've ever used.'
My mom usually leans into brand-name accessories, so I wasn't sure how she'd feel about this more utilitarian pick. But the bag's comfort, security features and smart design completely won her over. She wore it through airports, outdoor markets, public transit and long museum days.
Here's why my mom swears by this under-$50 crossbody bag, what we both loved about it and a few things to know before you buy one yourself.
Travelon Anti-Theft Essential Messenger Bag
The Travelon Anti-Theft Essential Messenger Bag is a lightweight crossbody that delivers serious security features — like locking zippers, slash-resistant construction and RFID-blocking pockets — in a compact, travel-friendly design that won over even my fashion-forward mom. Clever anti-theft features that actually work
Before this trip, my mom was always worried about keeping her cash and passport safe in crowded places. This bag gave her peace of mind. The locking zippers hook into discreet clasps that make it nearly impossible for someone to open them without her noticing. I watched her lock and unlock the zippers seamlessly while on the go. They're intuitive, but still secure.
She felt comfortable carrying her most important items close to her body and never once had to double-check that the bag was zipped or in the right position, which, if you've ever traveled with a cautious parent, you know is a small miracle.
Built-in protection from slash-and-grab theft
We were walking through a few busy markets in Budapest, and I noticed how confidently my mom wore this bag — no need to clutch it or constantly shift it to her front. That's because the slash-resistant panels and reinforced strap made her feel totally protected.
The strap itself is strong but soft, and it can be locked to a chair or railing, which she actually used when we were eating dinner outdoors. That kind of security gave her the freedom to relax and enjoy the moment, which, frankly, makes my job as the travel planner a lot easier.
RFID-blocking compartments for peace of mind
My mom didn't know what RFID-blocking meant at first, but after I explained that some scammers can steal your card info without ever touching your wallet, she was sold. This Travelon bag has built-in RFID-blocking card slots and a passport pocket.
Even better, it meant she didn't have to bring a separate travel wallet — a win for both packing light and simplifying security.
Comfortable to carry all day
My mom is not someone who wants to wear a heavy purse during a long day of walking. Thankfully, this bag weighs less than a pound when empty. Despite its lightweight feel, it held all her must-haves: phone, tissues, hand sanitizer, lip balm, wallet, sunglasses and a map from the hotel concierge.
The adjustable strap gave her the perfect fit, and the fabric held up great, even when we ran into a light shower coming back from lunch. A quick wipe-down made it look good as new.
It's not a large-capacity bag
If you're the type who likes to carry a water bottle, sweater, iPad and a snack, this bag probably isn't for you. With 4.5 liters of capacity, it holds the essentials, but not much more.
That was fine for my mom, who prefers to travel light and will never check a bag. But if you're expecting it to replace a tote or a backpack, you might find it too compact for your needs.
The style is… practical
Let's be honest — this isn't the kind of bag that turns heads or shows up on fashion blogs. It comes in just a few muted colors (black, midnight, nutmeg, spruce and purple), and there are no patterns or personalization options.
If you like your bags bold or ultra-stylish, this one's more functional than fashionable.
9.75 inches x 11 inches x 2.5 inches
8.5 inches x 8.5 inches x 2.25 inches
5.5 inches x 5.1 inches x 2.0 inches
4.5 liters
2.5 liters
2 liters
4
14
4
Yes
Yes
No
Yes
Yes
No
2 years
2 years
N/A After watching my mom use the Travelon Anti-Theft Essential Messenger Bag in Europe, I'm convinced it's one of the best travel bags out there for safety-focused, practical travelers. She loved how light and easy it was to carry — and even more, how secure she felt wearing it in unfamiliar places.
If you need a stylish statement piece, this isn't it. But if you want a dependable, thoughtfully designed travel crossbody that prioritizes security without sacrificing comfort, this under-$50 bag is a standout. In my mom's words, 'This is the best travel purse I've ever used.'
How does the Travelon Anti-Theft Essential Messenger Bag work to keep your belongings secure?
How does the Travelon Anti-Theft Essential Messenger Bag work to keep your belongings secure?
The Travelon Anti-Theft Essential Messenger Bag is built to keep your belongings safe with a thoughtful five-point security system. It features a slash-resistant mesh lining on all sides and the bottom to guard against cut-and-run thefts, plus a reinforced strap with a built-in steel cable that resists slicing. Locking zippers add an extra layer of protection, while an RFID-blocking organizer shields your cards and passport from electronic skimming. It's made from durable, water- and dirt-resistant polyester and is a low-maintenance option for travel and everyday use.
How many pockets does the Travelon Anti-Theft Essential Messenger Bag have?
How many pockets does the Travelon Anti-Theft Essential Messenger Bag have?
There are three main zippered compartments, including an interior organizer with slip and zip pockets.
What is the capacity of the Travelon Anti-Theft Essential Messenger Bag?
What is the capacity of the Travelon Anti-Theft Essential Messenger Bag?
The bag has a capacity of 4.5 liters.
Our team of editors and writers rigorously research, test and review travel gear to help readers make smarter purchases. As the travel products editor, Kyle Olsen personally recommended the Travelon Anti-Theft Essential Messenger Bag to his mom for a multi-city trip through Europe and got to see firsthand how it performed in airports, markets and crowded tourist spots.
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