Crossbody bags, totes, and fanny packs are travel staples; however, some occasions, settings, or trips call for something a little more fashion-forward. Enter the bucket bag—a favorite of fashion insiders and A-listers like Taylor Swift, Selena Gomez, and Katie Holmes. Named for their bucket-like shape—think: deep interiors, tall sides—these bags come in a variety of fabrics and materials to suit every style and destination, including straw, cotton, leather, nylon, and leather.
What sets the best bucket bags apart is how effortlessly they blend style with practicality. Spacious enough to hold everyday essentials like wallets, headphones, sunglasses, and sometimes even laptops or tablets, these distinct bags are designed with versatility in mind. As such, you’ll find options with long straps for crossbody wear, shorter handles, or both for easy carrying. Though zippers are rare due to the unique silhouette, many feature drawstrings, snaps, or magnetic closures that offer extra security and peace of mind for travelers on the go. Keep scrolling for the very best bucket bags to carry this summer and beyond.
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Top picks:
Bucket bags under $100
You don’t need to break the bank to snag a quality bucket bag—we found great options for under $100 each. Top-rated bags from Alo Yoga and Lululemon have a sporty feel thanks to their nylon construction and multiple pockets, some of which are roomy enough to hold water bottles. Several, including the aforementioned Lululemon pick and the Athleta Bucket Backpack, are also water-repellent. Meanwhile, thsi minimalist faux leather option from Amazon offers a sleek yet sophisticated feel.
Bucket bags for everyday use
When it comes to choosing the best bucket bags for everyday wear—whether at home or on the go—you’ll find plenty of great options. Our favorites are crafted from durable materials like nylon, perfect for casual daytime outings, or leather, which adds a polished touch that effortlessly transitions from day to night. Among our favorites is the Cuyana Linea bucket bag. Available in seven neutral colors and two finishes—pebbled or smooth leather—the sleek bag boasts a removable, adjustable crossbody strap, an internal pocket, and a snap closure for easy access.
Beach bucket bags
These beachy-chic bucket bags are the perfect accessory for your next trip to the shore. Most of our top picks are made from straw, a lightweight yet durable material with a classic vibe. If you prefer something softer, Dagne Dover’s Nico bucket bag is a nice pick. It can be worn crossbody or over your shoulder and has enough room for your phone, AirPods, and other small essentials. The raffia bucket bag from Zara is as laid-back as it is functional, with its adjustable strap and a wallet with a removable pocket. You’ll also notice that most of the bags below include a mix of practical and stylish bonus features—zippered or magnetic closures, multiple pockets, detachable straps, and chic leather accents.
Bucket bags for nights out
On your next night out on the town, ditch the classic crossbody in favor of one of these more modern bucket bags. These statement-making selects either have a striking metallic hue or sparkly finish to add a little flair to pretty much any outfit. If we had to call out just one, we’d go with the Jimmy Choo Bon Bon Micro bucket bag for its hybrid clutch-bucket bag design thanks to the addition of a built-in top handle. That said, there are several other options to choose from below, ranging in both color (see: the Versace bag, also available in a candy-colored hot pink) and price (from under $200 to over $1,000).
Splurge-worthy bucket bags
For a worth-it splurge, spring on one of these beautiful bucket bags that’ll last for seasons on end thanks to their timeless designs. Some are even A-list–approved: Selena Gomez was spotted carrying the refined Saint Laurent Le 37 bucket bag, which offers a stylish patent leather construction, subtle local detailing on the hook, a zippered interior pouch, a luxe suede lining, and four metal feet to prevent the bag from making direct contact with the floor—a major bonus when taking public transportation or zipping through the airport. For a bolder look, opt for the Toteme belted leather tote, which has an edgy croc-embossed pattern, plus three internal slip pockets, a clasp opening, and a supple suede lining.
This article has been updated with new information since its original publish date.
