Thursday, September 19, 2024

The Handbags To Take On A Flight If You Want To Get Bumped To First Class | ELLE

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A good travel bag is defined largely by its practical qualities. Number one, it needs to fit under the seat in front of you. Number two, it should probably have a reliable closure to avoid opportunistic hands reaching in while you’re abroad. Number three, it needs to be able to carry absolutely everything from your beach reads to your in-flight beauty supplies.

However, we also want our carry-ons to be chic and stylish, the kind of bag one might see on the arm of Jane Birkin or an Olsen twin. Given luggage weight restrictions, there’s also a chance this is the only bag you’ll be carting around — so it needs to wear a lot of hats, so to speak. Finally, and not for nothing, we all know a stylish travel ‘fit can help you score the coveted free upgrade to first class.

With that in mind, we’ve curated a special selection of travel bags you’ll want to take on your next flight — and carry around on your Euro summer holiday.

2024’s top travel handbags:

  1. Mimi Terra Eco Utility Tote Amarena, $159, The Iconic (here’s why)
  2. Status Anxiety Point Of No Return Bag, $299.95, Myer (here’s why)
  3. Dior Groove Bag, $5,100, Dior (here’s why)

The Best Travel Handbags 2024

best travel bag red

Best for: A beach travel bag

This cute bag in the season’s hottest colour is ideal for a hybrid vacation between city and coast. Big enough to carry all your flight essentials, you can carry it on the plane, but also comfortably take it out for wine in Paris.

Colours: Amarena (red), Fior Di Latte (cream/beige) | Materials: Recycled materias | Size:  H:33cm x W:47cm x D:12cm

Available at:

travel bag black leather

Status Anxiety Point Of No Return Bag

$299.95 at The Iconic

Best for: the city escape

Crafted from quality pebble leather, this medium-size bag is the perfect, secure addition to your next city escape. With internal zip pockets and flexible drawstring and magnet closure, its your perfect companion for dining and shopping.

Colour: Black | Materials: Leather | Size: W31cm x H24cm x D14cm

Available at:

travel handbag dior

Dior Groove Bag

From $5,100 at Dior

Best for: Luxury travel

So, you want to make a statement on your next luxury vacation? You’ll want a Dior carry-all. There are plenty of options within the maison, including the ever-popular Book Tote collection. However, we are partial to the new Dior Groove — a mid-size (or small) bag with top handles and a crossbody strap. The ideal city statement bag.

Colours: Black Macrocannage, Blue Dior Oblique Jacquard | Materials: Calfskin | Sizes: L25 x H19 x W16 cm

Available at:

Wide Bagu Woven Tote

$749 at St Agni

Best for: an ‘everything’ holiday

Woven bags are definitely the must-have of 2024, and St Agni has some excellent styles on offer. This is the perfect bag for a trip of any occasion, from beach to bar.

Colours: Chocolate, Black | Materials: 100% vegetable leather | Size: H35cm x W50cm

Available at:

Which type of handbag is best for travelling?

It really depends on the type of trip you’re taking. If you’re travelling to somewhere where petty crime might be an issue, security of your bag will be tantamount. This might mean getting a bag with a crossbody strap and a zip.

However, if you’re travelling for work or to a beachy resort, this will affect the type of bag you need. Just be sure to get something comfortable because you’ll surely be carting it around while adventuring around on-foot.


Looking to save money on travel handbags? Check out our coupon codes for The Iconic, The Outnet and more.


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