Best Travel Bag for London
Best Travel Bag for London
From Heathrow to the West End, your bag does a lot of work.
This page is all about practical London travel — airports, trains, the Tube, and long days on foot.
If you’re specifically worried about pickpockets and theft, make sure you also read our main security-focused guide:
Best Anti-Theft Bag for London →
What You Need from a London Travel Bag
- Airport-to-City Friendly: Easy to carry through Heathrow, Gatwick, or City Airport and still comfortable once you’re in town.
- Hands-Free for the Tube: Secure, snug, and out of the way on escalators, platforms, and packed trains.
- Lightweight for Long Days: You’ll easily hit 10,000+ steps exploring boroughs, museums, and markets.
- Smart Organisation: Quick-access spots for Oyster/Contactless, phone, hotel key, and passport.
Top Travel Picks for a London City Break
1. The Smart Backpack
Ideal as your personal item on the plane and your day bag in the city. Fits your essentials, an extra layer, and everything you need for a full day of sightseeing or meetings.
2. The Smart Crossbody
Perfect for days when you don’t want to carry too much. Great for museums, markets, and evenings in Soho or Covent Garden.
3. The Smart Mini Backpack
A compact option for light packers and city wanderers. Works beautifully for brunch in Notting Hill, shopping on Regent Street, or drinks by the river.
Travelling Smart vs Travelling Safe
This guide focuses on comfort, practicality, and ease of movement — what to carry and how to move around London without feeling weighed down. If your priority is security, hidden zips, and anti-theft tech, head to our dedicated guide: Best Anti-Theft Bag for London.
FAQs About Travel Bags for London
Is a backpack or crossbody better for London?
Both can work. Many visitors prefer a backpack for longer days and a crossbody for evenings and lighter itineraries.
Can I use these bags as my personal item on the plane?
Yes — The Smart Backpack and The Smart Crossbody both work well as personal items on most airlines, with space for in-flight essentials.
What if I’m worried about pickpockets?
For crowd-heavy areas like Oxford Circus, Camden, or busy stations, we recommend choosing a style with our smart security features. Read the full breakdown here: Best Anti-Theft Bag for London.
Pack Once, Enjoy London Fully
The right travel bag means you’re not thinking about your stuff — you’re thinking about the city. From first touchdown at the airport to your last night in the West End, Rachel Bloom bags are designed to move with you.
Related topics: London city break packing, airport to central London bags, best personal item for London flights, what bag to bring to London.