There are times when carrying a heavy tote is less than practical, which is why we’re thankful for the best sling bags.
Picture it, part belt bag, part crossbody, they’re designed for practicality but also rather stylish. They’re wonderful for traveling and some can even have room for an iPad.
These wraparound options let you carry all your essentials with ease — like a crossbody phone bag — but with a more slouchy feel. They’re fashion-forward, too, ranging from leather to designer.
New York Post Review: “I love a stylish sling bag for when I’m walking my dog, especially during the summer. This Italian calf suede sling is the perfect companion for long walks, providing a look that transitions easily between outfits while comfortably housing essentials like a small book, poop bags, lip balm, and a wallet.
While the suede, sourced from a sustainable, LWG-certified tannery, is beautiful, it lacks a thick plush feel; therefore, I highly recommend a suede protector spray and avoiding the rain to keep it in peak condition, as it feels a little fragile without it.
The bag has an adjustable nylon strap, a 100% cotton twill lining, an internal card slot, and a back zip pocket that is ideal for quick phone access, tampons or keys. But who am I to tell you what to put in that back pocket? Go crazy!
The brand suggests using a dust bag and stuffing it with tissue paper to help maintain the silhouette over time when you’re not using it.” – Emma Sutton-Williams, commerce reporter
Color options: five color options | Materials: leather or suede
When I see a vibrant, colorful bag, I instantly know it’s a Cotopaxi. Designed with an array of pockets and pouches to contain all your essentials, this sling bag can be worn around your waist or slung across your chest. It’s perfect for hiking or traveling across the country; in fact, you might even be able to fit all your travel necessities into this one compact pouch.
Color options: Available in six colors | Materials: 100% recycled fabrics
Bloomingdale's Pros: Interior zippered pockets Chain strap detail Zippered front pocket Large size is ideal for those who like to carry more than the essentials Cons: May feel heavy if over-stuffed with items Shop the MZ Wallace Large Crossbody Sling Bag for a more spacious take on the traditional sling bag. Though a splurge, its braided leather accents offer a more put-together look, and its gunmetal hardware gives off that cool-girl vibe we all crave. Plus, its nylon crossbody strap is both adjustable and detachable.
Color options: Available in eight colors | Materials: Nylon outer and inner with leather trim
For less than $20, the Telena Leather Sling Bag is yours for the taking. We love its white and brown hybrid tones — along with gold accents — making this a worthy item for your Amazon cart. Not to mention, it’s applauded by more than 5,000 satisfied shoppers and comes in a rainbow of other shades, too.
Color options: Available in 28 colors | Materials: Faux leather
Dagne Dover, oh how we love you. Shop the brand’s Extra Small Landon Neoprene Carryall Bag for an option that’s suitable to carry your DSLR camera. More, it’s the miniature version of our one of our favorite duffle bags (and you won’t be able to resist its marshmallow-soft yet sturdy exterior).
Color options: Available in nine colors | Material: Premium neoprene, 100% REPREVE recycled poly interior
We found the perfect sling bag for fall. The merlot wine shade characteristic of the Sonoma Goods for Life Acosta Sling Bag is now less than $30, has a chic and timeless look about it and features a thicker-than-usual strap to make it even more of a breeze to carry.
Customers are saying: “This purse is wonderful! Love all the space it has in it! Separate compartments and fits my wallet!”
Color options: Available in four colors | Materials: Polyurethane exterior, Polyester lining
Grab the G4Free Outdoor Tactical Bag Backpack, an option perfect for hiking (perhaps with some hiking gear and hiking shoes). Its backpack-style space adds to its value — a value that’s backed by nearly 12,000 satisfied shoppers.
Customers are saying: “Very nice range carry bag with plenty of pockets and options for easy use and personalization. Zippers feel easy and quality. The color is gorgeous. Can either use or detach the sling strap and just carry with the top handle.”
Color options: Available in 12 colors | Material: N/A
Oh, and the best part? It’s a sweet less-than-$25 Amazon buy.
Tumi Pros: Slim, sleek look Adjustable straps Back slip pocket Padded open pocket, pen loops, and key leash Cons: May feel heavy if over-packed If you’re seeking a travel-friendly sling that makes finding your essentials a snap, the Tumi Harrison Gregory Sling Bag is one of your best bets. The brand is renowned for its luggage and other carry-alls, and this particular style features an exterior L-zip front pocket, back slip pocket and interior padded open pocket for convenience and safe storage.
Color options: Available in one color | Material: nylon/spandex/leather; lining: 100% polyester
If security is priority number one, we can’t recommend Alpaka Bravo X Sling V2 enough. It’s the Fort Knox of sling bags with a multitude of features we wish other brands would adopt.
The bag has a slot large enough to hold an iPad, includes anti-theft locking zippers, and has a charging port so you’re not reliant on public ones. It’s also waterproof, so your inside electronics and valuables remain dry.
Color options: Available in one color | Material: X-Pac fabric
Yes, sling bags are still in style for 2026. They can offer just as much versatility as a traditional purse but have the wearability of a belt bag.
They’re available in various sizes, materials, and styles. Some are ideal for travel or double as a carry-on, while others have enough room for essentials and other small items.
Like any accessory, sling bags have their benefits and drawbacks. Some of the pros of sling bags include the following:
Despite the few cons of this style of bag, most people find sling bags to be useful, stylish items. While there is no one-size-fits-all type of sling bag, there truly is one for every taste, need, and budget.
This article was written by Emma Sutton-Williams, New York Post Commerce Writer/Reporter and resident fashionista. Emma is one of the best-dressed ladies in The Post’s office, and also known for finding an unbelievable deal on any one of her stylish outfits. Divulging on everything from designer launches, sales and dupes to the most-popular and most-underrated purse brands to luxurious silk pajama brands, Emma has cultivated an eye for style and an expertise for identifying the clothes and accessories worth your coin. At the same time, she proudly models the products she picks so you can see their fit and function first-hand. Emma has been creating shopping guides for The Post since 2024, and previously held bylines in Rolling Stone, Oprah Daily, Parents, InStyle, StyleCaster and more.
