Lifestyle

The best travel handbags that are both stylish and functional

Keep your friends close, keep your travel essentials closer.
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When it comes to handbags for travel, finding one that is compact but also fits everything we need is high on the checklist.

Nothing is worse than going for a lolly scramble in your too-big-for-its-own-good tote at the gate trying to find your boarding ticket and passport. Not to mention the line you’ll be holding up – we’re cringing just thinking about it.

To save you the stress (and your fellow passengers the awkwardly long wait at gate), we’ve rounded up the best travel handbags that will keep your travel essentials within an arm’s reach.

Your stress-free holiday awaits.

The best travel handbags and purses in Australia 2023

Jet Set Charm small nylon gabardine shoulder bag Michael Kors

Jet Set Charm small nylon gabardine shoulder bag, $309 at Michael Kors

Equal parts timeless and on-trend, this Jet Set Charm shoulder bag is endlessly versatile with its compact, structured silhouette, making it perfectly stylish for your departure.

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charles-and-keith-nasrin-geometric-tote-bag-beige

Nasrin geometric tote bag in Beige, $149 at Charles & Keith

Sometimes you want a tote with all the bells-and-whistles, especially when travelling. The Nasrin tote by Charles and Keith is capacious enough to fit your laptop and documents to ensure all your prized possessions are easy to find when you’re on the go.

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merlot-travel-handbag

Merlot shoulder bag, $59 at Hardtofind

Want to stick to the mini baguette style that has ruled the bag world for the past few seasons? We love this deep wine coloured shoulder bag made from high quality cross grain leather. It fits the essentials which means lightweight roaming whilst you adventure.

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the-horse-shoulder-hobo-bag

The Horse Leather sporty crossbody, $199.95 at THE ICONIC

A pop of colour will never go astray, and this kelly green hobo bag is a winner in our eyes. It’s surprisingly big meaning you can even fit a water bottle along with your wallet, phone and keys which is an actual life saver.

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charles-keith-brown-crossbody

Charlot bag, $109 at Charles & Keith

A crossbody bag is always a good option to choose when travelling, and with adjustable straps this number from Charles & Keith can be anything you want. Not to mention this delicious cocoa colour is super versatile and wearable.

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brie-leon-blue-shoulder-bag

Brie Leon Antonia bag, $220 at THE ICONIC

A classic shoulder bag is a great pick for travel as they are really comfortable to wear and keep your belongings as close to your body as possible which is great for safety. This bold blue number is made from a recycled nylon material which means it is easy to clean, it also has a zip closure and fits a surprising amount of essentials in it.

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JULY-carry-all-tote-black-personalised

Personalised Carry All tote bag, $195 at July

If you’re going to opt for a tote bag as your travel handbag, then make it the Carry All tote bag from July. This tote has plenty of room to carry everything you need – and more. Plus, its QuickPass hidden pocket is perfect for passports and important travel documents, and its easy pass-through band means you can easily attach it to your matching July suitcase.

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