My daily go-to bag is a crossbody. It carries my important stuff and leaves me hands-free to drive, shop, text, or reapply my lip gloss. But there are days when I need a little more space or a little more style than the crossbody delivers.
You may know the feeling. You’re on your way out the door and there’s nowhere to put your mom gear, your lunch, or your laptop. Or you’re meeting a special someone for a drink in exactly one hour, and your hands-free bag suddenly feels way too casual.
In truth, no one cares as much about these things as you do. So you don’t technically need a collection of handbags. But if you would enjoy having one or two extras beyond the daily driver, here are some options to consider.
1. The everyday tote
Most crossbody bags have limited space. That’s a good thing for my daily life. Without limitations, I’d be using my bag as overflow storage for books, notepads, snacks, laptop, plus my phone, wallet, lipcolor, sunblock, and keys.
Still, sometimes I am carrying a heavy load. And the laptop, notepad, and an ice-cold Diet Coke definitely do not fit in my crossbody. For those days, I have tried all iterations of big bags, including briefcases, messenger bags, hobo bags, satchels, and hobo bags. The style I keep coming back to is the casual tote.
A roomy book tote is stylish, easy, and versatile. The wide top is easy to fill when I’m in a rush, and the internal pockets keep me from losing my keys or pens. I can stuff it with gym clothes, a couple Vogue magazines (yes, I still get the printed version), my laptop, and my oversized sunnies that live in an oversized case. And the tote style always works, whether I’m headed to the beach or an important client meeting.
Shopping tip
Match the tote material to your lifestyle and budget.
- Canvas: Lightweight, washable, and heavy-duty
- Leather: Structured and sleek, but can be expensive (unless you opt for faux leather)
- Nylon: Ultra-lightweight, stain-proof, and water-resistant
2. The convertible backpack
Multi-function products can be smart buys if they effectively replace two or more products with one. A good convertible backpack is one of my favorites in this category. It shape shifts from top-handle bag or tote to two-strap backpack. Need a big bag that’s casual, convenient, and comfortable? Slip your arms into the two straps and carry the load comfortably across your back. Headed somewhere that feels too upscale for a backpack? Grab it by the top handle and you’re good to go.
Shopping tip
Different types and configurations are available, including:
- Buckle or Clip: Straps unclip or reattach in new positions
- Drawstring: Pull cords cinch the top and form shoulder straps
- Magnetic or Snap: Quick-release fasteners instantly lock straps or folded sections
3. The utility chest sling
The utility chest sling is a safer, stabler version of the crossbody. It wraps around one shoulder and sits flat across your chest, secured by one strap. No swinging, readjusting, or manually clutching the bag tight against your body on a crowded subway.
I love this style for traveling, especially if you can wear an outer layer over it. You can access your things quickly, but a pickpocket will likely choose an easier target.
Shopping tip
Look for a sling bag with built-in card slots, mesh pockets, and key clips. Also, broader straps provide better weight distribution and are more comfortable than thin straps, especially if you’re baring shoulders.
4. The deep bucket bag
Wide at the base, tighter at the top, the bucket bag has plenty of space for all things you need. Even a water bottle, compact foldable umbrella, or a small lunch container will fit. The bag’s cylindrical silhouette has vertical depth so you can stack taller items upright.
Inside, the bag is like a tote. One roomy interior accommodates everything. Some bucket bags have side pockets for the small stuff. These keep your smaller things from being swallowed up by everything else you packed.
Shopping tip
Invest in a bucket bag that has a sturdy, flat bottom, magnetic closure, and interior pockets. You want it to remain standing on tables or car seats, rather than collapsing. An easy closure snap deters wandering hands. And an interior pocket can hold your lip balm, so it doesn’t get lost in the bottom.
Read next: How to care for your handbags
5. The diaper bag
Don’t let the name fool you. Diaper bags are not just for diapers. They are not even just for moms. Diaper bags are among the smartest carryalls, because they offer organized space that a crossbody cannot match.
Old-school diaper bags were bulky and loud with cartoon prints and other design elements that screamed MOM. Today, they are more fashionable but just as functional. And while you may not have the budget for celeb favs like the Prada Nylon Baby Bag or the Gucci diaper bag tote, you can find cute low-budget options at Target and T.J.Maxx.
Shopping tip
Function overtakes design here. Look for insulated pockets that’ll keep a water bottle cold for hours and stroller clips to hang your bag hands-free. Spill-proof and wipeable linings are must-haves also.
6. The belt bag
If you love the convenience and security of a chest sling, but don’t like how it looks on your body, try a belt bag. They are nearly the same style, except that the belt bag is worn at the waist or low-slung across your hips.
Shopping tip
Decide how you want to use a belt bag and find a style that fits the application. Sporty versions are ideal for running and hiking, for example. Look for options that have multiple compartments so you can keep your keys from scratching your phone.
7. The clutch-wristlet hybrid
The clutch-wristlet hybrid is another two-in-one multitasker. Use it as a wallet inside your tote for the workday, then ditch the tote for date night. Its small size forces you to limit your gear to what really matters. So, yes, you must make tough choices (say, between mauve or red lips), but the reward is a delicate, feminine style.
Shopping tip
Look for quality stitching and hardware, plus card slots and a place to put your phone.
Read next: The splurge-worthy leather briefcase
Beyond the crossbody
A crossbody bag is reliable, versatile, and hard-working. This style is so functional that it can easily lure you into a bag rut. And there’s only one cure for that: adding a new bag to your collection. Fortunately, you have options ranging from classic book totes to roomy diaper bags that — like the crossbody — combine form and function. That’s a combo we love, because it saves you money by encouraging high use and low cost-per-wear.