The best bags to take to your next concert or music festival—Clear crossbodies and more
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Your handbag might be the finishing touch to your outfit, and though some occasions don’t call for much thought into your bag of choice—concerts, festivals and other musical events require a bit of forward thinking. Some venues have specific guidelines on what types of bags are permitted, so there are a few factors to consider when selecting a bag that won’t just hold your essentials but will look good as you jam out to your favorite artists.
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Hands-free bags, including belt, crossbody, and backpack variations are ideal so you won’t have to have to hold your purse the entire time or risk setting it down somewhere it could be lost. A slim bag or one with a slouchy structure will come in handy while navigating crowds, versus a large bulky bag that may cause you to get stuck or constantly bump into others. Lastly, clear bags are required at venues more often than ever to keep attendees safe, so it’s always smart to review the regulations ahead of your event. We’ve considered each of these factors when compiling this list of stylish and sensible bags for concerts, festivals, and other musical events—scroll on to discover a style that speaks to you.
WJCD Clear Acrylic Bag
Clear bags are often required by concert venues for security purposes, and the WJCD Clear Acrylic Bag from Amazon is a stylish, compact and practical choice for such instances. Not only is the sturdy rectangular purse super affordable, but it also comes in a variety of tinted, transparent colors. The gold hardware and chain strap offer a luxe appearance that looks just as good in person as it does in photos, according to over 7,000 4.6-star reviews.
Mali + Lili Gwen Woven Sling Bag
Embrace the coastal cowgirl trend with the Mali + Lili Gwen Woven Sling Bag from Anthropologie. With white faux leather, an intricate woven pattern and gold hardware, this modern purse is checking all the boxes for what’s in this season. In addition to being on par with one of this summer’s hottest styles, the bag also offers a chic, hands-free carrying method and just enough space for your concert essentials.
Steve Madden Bjenn Backpack
If you’re more of a backpack girly, the Steve Madden Bjenn Backpack is another fantastic see-through option for concerts and music festivals. The faux patent leather-lined backpack is compact but spacious enough for your essential belongings. It even comes with a matching beige coin purse and pouch. It’s also an accessory that can be dressed up or dressed down, giving you a ton of versatility in terms of styling with other pieces.
Shashi Mini Leela Bag
Looking for a bag that makes a more pronounced statement? Consider the Shashi Mini Leela Bag from Revolve. With fringe, beadwork and charm details, the crossbody purse is a gorgeous mix of boho and rock ‘n’ roll—if Stevie Nicks were a bag, this burlap envelope-shaped beauty would be just the one. Its black, gold and natural tones make it a good match for many outfits, and its size is just right for the few items you’ll need during a show.
Think Royln Freebird Belt Bag
If you like the puffer purse trend, the Freebird Belt Bag from Think Royln might make your heart skip a beat. Its diagonal puffer design is a reimagined take on the more common quilted pattern, but in combination with the black striped strap and black and gunmetal hardware, the modern-day fanny pack has an elevated, edgy vibe. With this bag strapped around your waist, you’ll be able to dance worry-free as you belt out your favorite songs. Looking for a belt bag that has more streamlined design? Try out the Reviewed-approved Dagne Dover Ace Fanny Pack.
Mytagalongs Clear Crossbody Bag
Big fan of belt bags but need one that’s clear for your upcoming event? This under-$15 find from DSW is cute, trendy, and durable. The Mytagalongs Clear Crossbody Bag is predominantly clear but also incorporates a slim section of quilted nylon for an interesting take on a transparent purse. The sportier design could be ideal for music festivals, especially those that require camping like Coachella or Bonnaroo, as the nylon and lucite materials are easier to clean than some others. Choose between strapping the bag around your waist or across your body and look stylish while doing so.
Vince Camuto Etta Crossbody Bag
If you’re searching for a bag that’s less compact without being terribly oversized, consider the Vince Camuto Etta Crossbody Bag. The canvas purse with faux leather details has a casual European vibe that feels akin to coastal cowgirl’s Italian cousin. With a roomy interior and slim width, the bag offers ample space for your belongings while not sticking out too far from your body—a good factor to consider when navigating crowds.
Mali + Lili Compact Crossbody Bag
For an option that you can use long after the concert is over, consider the Mali + Lili Compact Crossbody Bag from Anthropologie. The crossbody orientation of this little bag allows you to tote it around hands-free, and the small size of the purse offers just enough room for your phone, keys, wallet, lip product, and other essentials.
Beyond logistics, the black faux leather bag with its edgy gold chain strap is a stylish staple to add to your wardrobe as it’s bound to match most outfits it’s paired with. If you want to go in a more bold direction, the chartreuse and lavender colorways are super fun pops of color to add to a look, especially during summer.
Steve Madden Bmaxima Blush Multi Crossbody Bag
Some concerts and festivals call for a bit of bling (Taylor Swift’s Eras tour, we’re looking at you), and the Steve Madden Bmaxima Blush Multi Crossbody Bag is the bag for a glitzed-up occasion. The purse is embellished with varying sizes of rhinestones, features gold hardware and chain detailing, and comes with a detachable pouch. Wear it as a belt bag or a crossbody bag—either option gives a very “cool girl” vibe.
Btb Los Angeles Coco Clutch
Still not over last summer’s coastal grandmother trend? The Btb Los Angeles Coco Clutch will make all your classic east coast preppy fashion dreams come true. The wicker clutch features a chic pearlescent bead handle, a gold chain crossbody strap, and mint patent leather finishes for a bag that’s equal parts sophisticated, trendy, and casual. With plenty of room for your belongings and a slim structure, this wicker purse will seamlessly take you from the concert to the beach, to brunch and beyond.
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Prices were accurate at the time this article was published but may change over time.