Updated September 2025
Why I bought it
When I’m traveling (or just running around Bangkok), I want a hands-free crossbody that looks good, fits the essentials, and makes pickpockets work way too hard. I picked up the Travelon Anti-Theft Classic Small East/West Crossbody (style 43115) for my first European trip and it’s become my “everywhere” bag since traveling the world full time.
Quick verdict
If you want a compact, low-profile crossbody with true anti-theft hardware (locking zips, slash-resistant panels/strap, RFID organizer), this is a fantastic everyday travel purse. It’s comfortable cross-body, easy to organize, and discreet enough to blend in at museums, markets, and transit. Capacity is “daily essentials,” not “daypack”, think phone + small wallet + passport + sunglasses + hand sanitizer + tissues + a few extras.
Key specs (at a glance)
Dimensions: 10.25" W × 8" H × 2.5" D (about 3 L volume).
Weight: ~0.7 lb (light).
Strap: up to 59" length; drop 14"–28" (adjustable crossbody).
Material: polyester shell.
Security system (5-point): locking compartments, slash-resistant body panels, slash-resistant/lock-down strap, and RFID-blocking organizer.
Pockets/layout: main compartment with RFID card + passport slots, open slip pocket, zip wall pocket, tethered key clip with mini LED; front + rear zip pockets.
List price: shown at $77 HERE on Amazon at time of writing (prices vary by retailer/color).
What fits inside (real use)
Phone (large iPhone/Android), slim wallet, passport
Sunglasses (in a soft sleeve), compact tissues, lip balm, sanitizer
Flat battery bank + cable
Small notebook/pen
It stays flat and close to the body, great for crowds, concerts, subways, and night markets. (It’s not a water-bottle or tablet bag; keep expectations “compact EDC.”)
Anti-theft features that actually matter
Locking zippers on the main compartments deter casual pickpockets in busy queues and trains.
Slash-resistant mesh in the body panels plus a reinforced strap help defeat slash-and-grab attempts.
RFID-blocking slots keep your contactless cards/passport from being skimmed while you’re shoulder-to-shoulder in crowds.
Lock-down strap can loop around a chair or cafe table for quick “hands-free” security.
These aren’t gimmicks, Travelon builds them into the bag’s structure, not as add-ons. In real life, the locking pulls become second nature after a day or two.
Organization & comfort
The front and rear zips are perfect for phone/transport cards you need fast.
Inside, the RFID organizer keeps your passport and primary cards in one spot (I still carry a slim decoy wallet for small cash).
The adjustable strap makes true cross-body carry easy for different heights and layers (jacket vs tee).
The key clip with LED is a tiny detail you’ll appreciate in dim hotel hallways or taxis at night.
Style & colors
Travelon cycles colors by season (think Black, Midnight, Nutmeg, Purple, Spruce). Availability shifts, some shades go in/out of stock on the brand site, while retailers may still have them.
Pros & consPros
Real anti-theft hardware without looking tactical.
Light, flat, and truly hands-free; comfortable all day.
Thoughtful organization (RFID slots, rear pocket, key-clip light).
Fair list price for the feature set (often discounted by retailers).
Cons
Capacity is “essentials only”, don’t expect a water bottle or 10″ tablet. (3 L volume.)
Polyester shows rain well but isn’t a dry-bag, carry tiny umbrella/pack cover if you’re in monsoon season.
Seasonal colors sell out; specific shades can be hard to find.
Who it’s perfect for
Travelers who want a compact purse with legit theft deterrents
City commuters and festival/concert-goers who need a low-profile crossbody
Minimalists who carry phone + small wallet + keys + passport and a few extras
Who should size up: If you need a water bottle/iPad Mini or you’re the “just in case” packer, look at a larger Travelon crossbody in the Classic line or the N/S silhouette.
Care & durability
The polyester exterior wipes clean easily with a damp cloth; avoid harsh solvents on the RFID liner or coated zips. (General care guidance for Travelon crossbodies; always spot test.) For longevity, don’t overload the locking pulls and keep the strap flat (not twisted) when you lock it to chairs/rails.
Price & where to buy
MSRP: listed at $77 but often can be found on sale here
Also stocked by major retailers; exact pricing depends on color/stock. You can shop the Classic line HERE on Amazon
Affiliate note: If you use my link, I may earn a small commission, at no extra cost to you. Thanks for supporting my free resources for travelers!
Frequently asked questions
Does it fit a standard passport and boarding pass?
Yes, passport in the RFID slot; boarding passes usually fold once and slide into the front/rear zip pocket.
Can you wear it comfortably crossbody on different body types?
Yes, the strap adjusts up to 59" with a 14"–28" drop for true cross-body carry.
Is the RFID necessary?
RFID skimming is rare but possible in crowded hubs; the built-in RFID organizer protects contactless cards and e-passports without needing a separate sleeve.
Travelon
Alternatives in the same family
Travelon Anti-Theft Classic N/S Crossbody, taller profile if you prefer vertical organization and a bit more room.
Travelon Classic Slim Double Zip Crossbody, slimmer/cheaper, fewer liters; good if you carry very light.
My bottom line
The Travelon Anti-Theft Classic Small E/W Crossbody (43115) hits the sweet spot between security, organization, and style for minimalist travel days and everyday errands. It keeps your essentials tight to your body, the locks are simple, and the layout just works. If you want a compact “don’t-worry-about-it” travel purse, this is a win.
