Crossbody vs. Backpack: Which Is Better for City Travel?
City travel is all about balance: freedom and function, style and security, comfort and compactness. One of the most important choices travelers face? The right type of bag.
Two top contenders dominate the urban traveler’s toolkit — crossbody bags and backpacks. But which is better for navigating bustling streets, hopping on public transport, or exploring cafés and galleries?
Let’s break down the pros and cons — and help you choose the best travel companion.
Why Your City Travel Bag Matters
When you’re exploring an urban destination, your bag isn’t just storage — it’s part of your mobility, security, and even your style statement.
The wrong bag can leave you sweaty, frustrated, or worse — fumbling for your phone in a crowded square.
🎒 The Backpack: Roomy and Reliable
Backpacks have long been the go-to for travelers who need to carry more.
✅ Pros:
- Ample space for clothes, water bottles, cameras, and more
- Even weight distribution across both shoulders
- Great for longer outings or multi-purpose days
❌ Cons:
- Can feel bulky in crowded spaces
- You’ll need to take it off to access contents
- Easy target for pickpockets when worn on your back
The Crossbody Bag: Compact and City-Savvy
Crossbody bags have surged in popularity, especially for city explorers who value minimalism and quick access.
✅ Pros:
- Quick access to essentials like wallet, phone, passport
- Worn in front of the body for added security
- Lightweight and stylish — perfect for casual or dressy days
- Less sweat, more agility in hot or crowded settings
❌ Cons:
- Limited space for bulky items
- Uneven weight on one shoulder(not ideal for long hikes)
So… Which Should You Choose?
The answer lies in how you travel:
| You Should Choose | If You… |
|---|---|
| Backpack | Need to carry a laptop, jacket, or camera gear daily |
| Crossbody Bag | Value ease, agility, and a slim city profile |
city travelers
The Best of Both Worlds: Meet Waterfly Bags
If you’re still torn between the two, Waterfly might be the brand that ends your debate.
The Waterfly Urban Elite 2.0 UltraLight Crossbody Bag is designed for city travelers who want the compact feel of a crossbody with the storage logic of a backpack.
✔️ Anti-theft pocket
✔️ Water-resistant fabric
✔️ Multiple compartments, minimalist profile
✔️ Ultra-lightweight and durable
💬 One of our users said it best: “It fits more than I thought and doesn’t feel like I’m carrying anything!”
🛍️ Shop Waterfly City Bags — trusted by over 1M travelers worldwide.
Whether you’re commuting in London, wandering through Tokyo, or museum-hopping in New York — your bag can make or break your day.
- Need to carry more? Go backpack.
- Want to move smarter? Go crossbody.
- Want the clever hybrid? Go Waterfly.
Happy travels. Smart packing. And don’t forget: the best adventures are hands-free.