There’s no denying the power of accessories in elevating your style, and hobo bags are an excellent way to mix things up. When it comes to choosing the perfect bag, I believe that considering what you need to carry is key. A roomy bag can be a lifesaver on busy days when you’re juggling multiple tasks. To find the ideal hobo bag, take your time to explore different styles and options.
By doing so, you’ll be able to pick one that not only fits your needs but also becomes a trusted companion for years to come.
Bags have the ability to make or break an outfit, and for many people, they evoke strong emotions – whether it’s a love for collecting them or forming a close bond with their favorite piece. Hobo bags in particular offer a unique blend of fashion statement and reliable utility.
If you’re new to hobo bags or struggling to find one that suits your taste, don’t worry – this guide is here to help. With the top 10 best hobo bags reviewed below, you’ll be well on your way to finding the perfect companion for all your adventures.
What to Consider When Choosing a Hobo Bag
A hobo bag’s unique crescent shape sets it apart, but its defining characteristics go beyond just its silhouette. The size and style of the bag also impact several key features, including the number and type of pockets, the design of the straps, and the closure mechanisms used. As you search for the ideal hobo bag, consider these distinguishing features to make an informed decision.
Purpose
When selecting a hobo bag, it’s crucial to consider its intended purpose. Will it serve as your trusty sidekick for daily errands, or perhaps a companion on a flight? The reason behind your need for a hobo bag should inform your decision-making process. Knowing how you plan to utilize the bag will help you zero in on the perfect size and design, making the shopping experience more streamlined.
Size
When selecting the perfect hobo bag, consider the size you require based on the items you intend to carry. Some bags are compact enough to hold only the essentials like a wallet and phone, while others can accommodate larger items such as laptops, books, or even small children (although we wouldn’t recommend carrying children in this manner). To ensure you choose the right size bag for your needs, take a moment to measure the dimensions of the items you plan to carry.
This will give you an accurate gauge of what size bag you require. If you’re looking for a replacement bag with a similar capacity to your current one, measure your existing bag to determine its optimal size. For laptop-toting bags, be sure to consider both height and width measurements to guarantee a secure and comfortable fit.
Drop
When it comes to measuring the ideal size of a bag, one crucial factor is the drop – defined as the distance between the top of the bag’s middle crease and its shoulder strap or handle. This space is where your arm or hand will rest while carrying the bag, significantly impacting how comfortable you’ll be while wearing it. When selecting a new bag, pay attention to the straps’ measurements or look for adjustable options that allow you to customize the drop length to suit your needs.
Interestingly, many hobo bags feature short handles and long shoulder straps that are often detachable – adding flexibility to their overall design.
Design
When selecting the perfect hobo bag, design plays a crucial role. This encompasses not only aesthetics but also functionality. A few key aspects to consider include material, closures, and pockets. The material used will significantly impact the bag’s durability and washability, with common options including leather, faux leather, cotton, canvas, nylon, and more. Straps can vary greatly in terms of width, thickness, and material, which may affect their comfort level against the shoulder.
Understanding your preferences beforehand is vital, especially when shopping online. Closures are another distinctive feature that sets each bag apart. Zippers, velcro, buttons, magnets, and snapping buttons are just a few examples. Some bags opt for an open design without a closure, so it’s essential to evaluate what a bag includes to ensure it suits your needs.
Top 10 Best Hobo Bags 2024
Best Overall Hobo Bag: BROMEN Designer Vegan Leather Handbag
The versatility of this hobo bag lies in its ability to adapt to various occasions thanks to its two distinct shoulder straps. With a roomy interior, it’s an excellent choice for daily use, diaper bags, or school book bags. Although it lacks internal pockets and compartments, the available space allows for ample storage. Measuring 11.81 inches tall, 9.45 inches long, and 5.51 inches deep, this bag stands out among its peers with its generous size.
You can even fit a laptop inside, although the closure won’t be possible due to its larger design. The adjustable strap’s drop is approximately 11.61 inches when paired with the multi-colored strap, offering flexibility for carrying as a crossbody or single-shoulder bag. The matching adjustable strap provides an added layer of versatility. The bag features a single compartment with minimal pockets.
While there are outside pockets and an inside pocket equipped with a zipper, everything else must be stored within the main compartment. The outer pockets and bag itself secure with a magnetic button, while the inside pocket uses a zipper for additional security. Crafted from faux vegan leather, this bag’s matching strap is thin and made of the same material as the bag. The multi-colored strap, on the other hand, is constructed from woven fabric and features a wider design.
With a wide range of colors available, including neutrals like grey and black, there’s an option to suit every style. The pros of this bag include its many color options, interchangeable straps, ample storage space, and outer pockets. However, it does lack additional internal pockets, leaving only one pocket on the inside.
Best Compact Hobo Bag: Baggallini Everywhere Bagg
The Baggallini Everywhere Bag is the perfect companion for travelers who prioritize convenience and organization. Its compact design, measuring 9 inches tall, 13.5 inches long, and 5 inches deep, makes it easy to slip into a car or airplane compartment. Despite its small size, this bag boasts numerous pockets on both the inside and outside, allowing you to stash your essentials like credit cards, cash, and phone with ease.
A wristlet with RFID protection keeps your valuables secure while walking. The Everywhere Bag also features an extendable strap that can be adjusted to 26 inches for a crossbody carry or shortened to accommodate a handbag. Made from durable nylon, this bag is easy to clean and resistant to water exposure. It closes securely with zippers and has additional features like elastic loops for pens and a sleeve on the backside for attaching to suitcases.
With an array of colors and patterns to choose from, there’s something for every style. While its small size limits versatility, this bag excels at keeping your belongings organized and within reach when traveling light.
Best Premium Hobo Bag: The Sak The Sequoia Hobo Bag
This stylish and functional hobo bag, made from high-quality real leather, is an ideal companion for everyday use. Its roomy interior offers ample space to carry your essentials, including phone, wallet, makeup, and more. The medium size and multiple pocket spaces allow you to keep your belongings organized and secure. Available in three neutral colors, this bag effortlessly matches with any outfit.
With a sturdy single shoulder strap that’s comfortable to wear, the Sequoia bag is designed for everyday use. It features one large compartment with a zipper closure, as well as three inner pockets – one with a zipper and two slip pockets – and two outer pockets, one with a zipper and one without. The interior lining is made of polyester, adding a touch of elegance to this already stylish bag.
Weighing approximately a pound before filling it with your belongings, this bag may be on the heavier side for some users. However, its numerous features make it an excellent choice for those seeking a reliable and practical bag.
Best Budget Hobo Bag: Realer Faux Leather Hobo Bag
This budget-friendly hobo bag from Realer is a great option for those seeking quality without breaking the bank. It boasts ample space, multiple pockets, and decorative tassels, giving it a premium look that belies its affordable price point. The vegan faux leather construction ensures a cruelty-free choice, available in a range of neutral hues to suit any style. Everyday use is this bag’s forte, thanks to its interior compartments designed for organizing daily essentials.
While it may not accommodate larger items like laptops, it can comfortably fit notebooks and other small accessories. Measuring 11 inches tall, 12.4 inches long, and 4.73 inches deep, the bag features three internal compartments and a total of six pockets: two main sections, one large zippered pocket, one side pocket, and two slip pockets for stashing smaller items. The exterior boasts three zippered pockets, one on each side and another on the back, providing ample storage space.
While some may find the short handle non-removable or the relatively short drop limiting, the adjustable and detachable crossbody strap offers flexibility in carrying style.
Best Hobo Bag With Pockets: Scarleton Satchel Handbag
The Scarleton Satchel Handbag is a treasure trove of compartments and pockets, boasting an impressive 11 nooks for keeping your belongings organized. This everyday bag excels at providing ample space for your essentials, with three interior compartments that can be zipped shut or left open for easy access. The faux leather construction is sturdy and stylish, available in eight different colors, half of which are neutral shades like black, grey, and brown.
The bag’s versatility lies in its ability to be carried as a handbag, over the shoulder, or as a crossbody bag thanks to its adjustable straps. The longer strap measures up to 27 inches, while the shorter handles have a 14-inch drop. However, it’s worth noting that these shorter handles are not detachable.
The majority of pockets feature zipper closures for added security, with two outside pockets sporting snap buttons.
While these may be suitable for storing small items like a water bottle, they won’t quite fit larger containers. Despite this minor drawback, the Scarleton Satchel Handbag is an excellent choice for those who crave organization and practicality.
Best Hobo Bag for Travel: Travelon Anti-Theft Heritage Hobo Bag
This Travelon bag is a traveler’s best friend, designed to keep valuables safe and secure. The anti-theft zippers and RFID protection ensure that credit cards and other important documents remain out of reach from would-be thieves. With its compact size and lightweight construction, this purse is perfect for carrying the essentials on your next adventure. Whether you’re exploring a new city or backpacking across continents, this Travelon bag has got you covered. The bag’s dimensions are 11.
5 inches tall, 9.5 inches long, and 3 inches deep, weighing in at just 13 ounces. The short strap features a 9.5-inch drop, making it suitable for carrying on your arm or shoulder, while the adjustable longer strap offers a range of 14.5 to 27 inches. One of its standout features is the stainless-steel mesh lining, which provides slash-resistant protection against accidental damage. The cotton and polyester blend fabric may tear if snagged, but the inner layer will keep your belongings secure.
The bag’s locking capabilities are another major selling point. The zippers can latch onto the bag to prevent unauthorized access, with the front pocket zipper featuring a clasp that attaches to the purse, and the main compartment zipper attaching to the clasp that holds the handle. The handle itself is detachable, allowing you to easily swap it out for a different one or attach it to your belt loop or other object.
The inside of the bag features a single large compartment with two slip pockets and a zipper pocket on each side, while the outside boasts a locking zipper pocket on the front and a non-locking zipper pocket on the back. Unfortunately, this Travelon bag only comes in three colors: grey, green, and blue. However, its pros far outweigh its cons. The locking zippers, detachable handles, and RFID-protected pockets make it an excellent choice for travelers looking to keep their belongings safe.
Most Vibrant Hobo Bag: Angelkiss Hobo Purse
This Angelkiss bag is more than just a practical accessory – its unique, colorful designs make it a statement piece. With 24 vibrant options to choose from, including animal prints and solid colors like black and white, there’s something for everyone. While it may not be the most conventional-looking bag, its medium size and ample pocket space make it perfect for daily use. The faux leather material is washable and slightly waterproof, but don’t plan on taking it swimming.
The bag has eight pockets in total, with six of them closing securely with zippers. This thoughtful design makes organization a breeze. However, the bag’s shape can be a drawback – due to its embellishments, it tends to slouch when placed upright, and may not sit perfectly flat even when filled with items. In terms of functionality, the bag has two handles, one fixed and one detachable.
The fixed handle has a 12-inch drop, while the detachable handle can extend up to 23 inches, allowing you to wear it as a crossbody bag. Keep in mind that the double handles may not be comfortable for everyone. Ultimately, this bag is designed for everyday use as a fashionable purse or accessory. Its size – 13 inches tall, 14 inches long, and 5 inches deep – makes it suitable for carrying small to medium-sized items. Weighing 1.
8 pounds, the bag may be heavier than some prefer, but its many features make it a great choice for those who value style and functionality.
Most Stylish Hobo Bag: Angel Barcelo Roomy Hobo Handbag
What sets this bag apart is its understated elegance, making it an excellent choice for pairing with outfits. The array of patterns, including tie-dye, plaid, and floral options, adds to its versatility. With 37 different designs to choose from, there’s something for everyone. The simplicity of the design belies its functionality. The bag features two compartments instead of one large one, providing ample space for a wallet, phone, and other essentials.
Its medium size makes it perfect for everyday use. Measuring 13.8 inches long, 11.8 inches tall, and 4.7 inches deep, the bag has a moderate size that can accommodate various items. The two compartments allow for organization, while the lack of larger pockets means tablets won’t fit. The short handles create a drop of about 11 inches, while the longer strap extends to approximately 23 inches.
Crafted from faux leather, the bag boasts a decorative braided design on one side and minimal silver embellishments. The exterior features zippered pockets on both the front and back, as well as two side pockets with snap-button closures. Inside, you’ll find two separate compartments with zipper pockets, providing additional storage. The pros of this bag include its wide range of designs, ability to be worn as a crossbody, and simplistic yet elegant design.
However, some may find it lacking in that not all pockets can accommodate recent smartphone models.
Most Practical Hobo Bag: DOURR Multi-Pocket Canvas Bag
This understated bag from DOURR is a perfect choice for those who value simplicity without sacrificing functionality. With three spacious compartments, including one with internal pockets, you can easily stay organized. The bag’s design is refreshingly uncomplicated, with no patterns or elaborate features to distract from its purpose. Available in a range of neutral and vibrant colors, it’s an excellent option for everyday use.
At 11.8 inches tall, 11 inches long, and 5.
1 inches deep, the bag provides ample room to store a tablet, making it suitable for daily tasks or as a travel companion. The two thin handles, with a 7-inch drop, offer a comfortable carrying experience.
The bag’s construction features cotton canvas on the exterior, polyester on the interior, and faux leather handles, resulting in a lightweight yet durable product. The three compartments are well-appointed, with two closing via magnetic buttons and one featuring a zipper.
Inside this zippered compartment, you’ll find a zipper pocket and two slip pockets – ideal for securing valuable items like your wallet and phone.
While the bag may not have outside pockets, it still offers plenty of storage space. The absence of adjustable handles and crossbody straps might be a drawback for some, but overall, this bag is an excellent choice for those seeking a simple yet practical accessory.
Most Spacious Hobo Bag: CCcollections Cotton Crossbody Sling Bag
This bag is perfect for those who need to carry a lot of gear on-the-go. Its spacious interior can accommodate a laptop, books, and other essentials, making it an excellent choice for students, remote workers, or anyone who likes to work from different locations. While the material may be slightly thin, the bag’s versatility makes up for its minor drawbacks.
The large compartment is ideal for carrying bulky items like laptops or clothing, while the small zipper pocket inside provides a convenient spot to stash your phone and keep it safe from getting lost at the bottom of the bag. One notable drawback is the non-adjustable strap, which may require some creative knot-tying to achieve the perfect fit.
Overall, this bag’s lightweight design, secure zipper closure, and generous interior make it an excellent option for anyone who needs a reliable companion for daily adventures.
The Complete Guide to Buying a Hobo Bag
When exploring the world of hobo bags, it’s natural to feel uncertain about where to start. Unlike familiar styles that align with your personal taste, hobo bags present a unique challenge. Without prior experience or knowledge of what works well for you, it can be difficult to determine what features to look for in a bag. That’s why this guide is designed to provide valuable insights and help you navigate the process of finding the perfect hobo bag.
Versatility
When it comes to hobo bags, many people assume they’re only useful for specific occasions or purposes. However, the versatility of these bags makes them an excellent addition to anyone’s accessory arsenal. What may start as a dedicated diaper bag or purse can quickly evolve into a multi-purpose companion for busy lifestyles. Perhaps you’ll find yourself using it to carry your laptop and files during late-night study sessions or as a reliable travel buddy when you’re on the go.
By considering the various ways you might use your hobo bag, you can avoid the frustration of not having the right gear when you need it most – like trying to cram a laptop into an already-packed purse or being left without a suitable bag for a sudden overnight stay.
Material
The material used to make your bag plays a significant role in its overall performance and longevity. The choice of material can also influence how cautious you are with it, often unconsciously. Additionally, the material often affects the price point of the bag, making it essential to consider your budget when selecting the right one. Leather, both genuine and faux, has distinct characteristics.
Genuine leather is durable but may be challenging to clean, which might not suit those who lead an outdoorsy lifestyle and frequently encounter dirt. Faux leather, on the other hand, is easier to maintain, as it can be spot cleaned with dish soap. However, some types of faux leather may shrink, so it’s crucial to understand the specific type used in the bag. Cotton and canvas are popular materials for hobo bags.
Cotton is a versatile material that comes in various forms, ranging from thin and prone to tearing to thicker and more sturdy. Canvas is simply a thicker form of cotton. The benefits of using cotton include machine washability and minimal shrinkage, making it an excellent choice for carrying items like beach towels or soccer cleats that require washing. Cotton bags can be easily thrown in with dirty laundry.
Nylon and polyester are materials frequently used as linings but also have their own unique properties. These materials excel at withstanding heavy wear and tear. Nylon is commonly used in umbrellas, while polyester is often favored by those working in the food service industry due to its durability.
Straps
When it comes to bags, straps play a crucial role in determining overall comfort and usability. The type of strap can vary significantly, ranging from round tubes to flat strips. While some straps might dig uncomfortably into your shoulder, others may go unnoticed. Finding the right balance is key, as those with broader shoulders may prefer wider straps for optimal support, whereas individuals with narrower shoulders may require thinner straps to prevent the bag from slipping off.
For those carrying multiple items, flat straps can provide a more comfortable alternative to tube-style straps, which may cause increased pressure on the shoulder. Some bags may come with permanently attached straps that cannot be removed, although they often include an additional detachable strap for crossbody wear.
In these cases, one might wonder what to do with the excess permanent straps – options could include tucking them away within the bag, allowing them to dangle freely, or seeking clarification from the manufacturer as to why all straps couldn’t be designed for detachment.
Pockets
The humble pocket is often overlooked as a crucial aspect of bag functionality. Without them, the contents of your bag can quickly become a chaotic mess, leaving you scrambling to find what you need. Fortunately, many bags come equipped with at least one internal pocket, although some may boast multiple compartments for maximum organization. However, some designs prioritize aesthetics over practicality, eschewing external pockets in favor of a sleek, unadorned appearance.
This can be particularly frustrating if you rely on having quick access to certain items. As such, it’s essential to factor pocket functionality into your bag-buying decision-making process, taking the time to thoroughly inspect each contender before making a purchase.
Anti-Theft
When it comes to bags like the Travelon Anti-Theft Heritage Hobo Bag, which feature locking zippers and RFID protection, security is clearly a top priority. However, crime rates vary greatly depending on location – some cities or areas within cities are more susceptible to pickpocketing than others.
If you reside in an area with higher crime rates or find yourself traveling in unfamiliar territory, investing in a bag that provides an extra layer of protection against would-be thieves can be a wise decision. After all, it’s always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to safeguarding your belongings.
Final Thoughts
The versatility of hobo bags is one of their greatest appeals. With a vast array of sizes and styles to choose from, it’s only natural that you’ll need some time to find the perfect addition to your wardrobe. But once you do, you might just find yourself becoming hooked on these practical yet fashionable companions. Before long, your closet will be overflowing with hobo bags in every shape, size, and color imaginable.
