Author: Ethan Publish Time: 2025-10-30 Origin: Milestone
We are here to answer your most common questions about the crossbody, from its core definition to the healthiest way to wear one.
A crossbody bag is defined by its single, long strap that is designed to be worn diagonally across the body ("cross-body"). The bag itself then rests on the wearer's hip or lower back.
Why use one? Its design provides three key benefits:
Security: The bag stays securely against your body, making it ideal for travel, concerts, or crowded urban areas.
Hands-Free Convenience: This is its primary purpose. It allows the wearer to move freely, shop, or manage other items (like phones or children) without having to hold their bag.
Weight Distribution: It distributes the bag's weight across the shoulder and back, making it more comfortable for extended wear than a traditional shoulder bag.
When to wear one? A crossbody is the ideal choice for any situation involving activity, including travel, commuting, shopping, festivals, or everyday errands.
As manufacturers, we classify these bags based on strap length, construction, and intended carrying style.
| Bag Type | Crossbody Bag | Shoulder Bag | Sling Bag |
|---|---|---|---|
| Strap Length | Very long | Medium | Short to Medium |
| How It's Worn | Diagonally across the body. Bag rests on the opposite hip. | On one shoulder. Bag hangs on the same side. | Diagonally across the body. Bag rests high on the back or front of the chest. |
| Design | Often a classic, purse-like shape. | Can be any shape (e.g., Tote, Hobo). | Often a specific, ergonomic, vertical, or "teardrop" shape. |
Can I wear a crossbody bag as a shoulder bag?
Yes, but only if the strap is adjustable. This is a key feature we incorporate into many of our designs. By shortening the strap, you can easily convert it for shoulder wear. However, a non-adjustable crossbody strap will be too long to function comfortably as a shoulder bag.
This section answers: Which side to wear a crossbody bag? and What is the healthiest way to carry a bag?
Which side to wear it?
There is no "correct" side; it is a matter of comfort. Most right-handed people find it more convenient to wear the strap on their right shoulder, allowing the bag to rest on their left hip. This keeps their dominant right hand free.
What is the healthiest way to carry a bag?
From an ergonomic standpoint, wearing a lightweight crossbody bag is one of the healthiest options, as it distributes weight across your core.4
The healthiest method is:
Keep it light: Do not overload the bag.
Adjust the strap: The bag should rest at your hip, not bang against your knees.
Switch sides: To prevent long-term muscle imbalance, periodically switch the bag to your other shoulder.
This is significantly healthier than a traditional shoulder bag, which places all the weight on one shoulder, or a heavy tote carried in the crook of the arm, which strains the elbow and neck.
Are people still wearing crossbody bags?
Yes, absolutely. They are not a "trend"; they are a core staple and a permanent, high-volume category. From a manufacturing perspective, the demand for functional, hands-free bags (including crossbodies, belt bags, and slings) is stronger than ever. They are a fundamental part of the modern wardrobe.
Why can't you wear a crossbody bag on a plane?
This is a common myth. You absolutely can wear a crossbody bag on a plane.
The confusion stems from airline "personal item" rules. A crossbody bag is your "personal item" (or your "hand luggage," depending on size).5 You cannot, for example, bring a rolling carry-on, a large backpack (as your personal item), and a large crossbody bag. The crossbody must be one of your two allowed items (carry-on or personal item).
However, a small crossbody (like a small purse) is often allowed in addition
