How big a cross bag do you need?

Start with what you carry every day. The cross bags here range from a 1-litre bag to 6-litre slings, and the listings give the size of most of them.

• The smallest bags: the Nike Heritage Cross-Body Bag (Small, 1L) and the Connect Free, 1.44 litres at 12 x 20 x 6 cm.
• More room for essentials: the Connect Bag 2 Go holds 3 litres and has two extra pockets. The Nike Heritage 4L has a main pocket and an accessories pocket.
• A bit more room: most CUBS sling bags and the Connect Hunter hold 6 litres. The Hunter has four pockets, and the CUBS Front Locked Pocket Sling Bag has a secure front pocket for your phone, keys and cards.

Across the chest, over the shoulder or at the waist

Many of these bags have an adjustable strap, and several can be worn more than one way. The CUBS slings go across the body or over one shoulder. The Connect Free can be worn as a waist bag, a chest bag or a crossbody. Palladium's Small Bag, Flat Sacoche and Logo Water Repellent Crossbody Bag go around the waist or across the body. The Nike Heritage 4L is made to be worn across the chest as an alternative to a hip pack, and some versions have a removable strap.

Bags for rain and everyday knocks

If your bag goes out in all weather, check the fabric. The CUBS Cross Body Bag uses a waterproof fabric. The Palladium and Puma crossbody bags use water-resistant fabric, and the SevenYears Urbansling is made from weather-resistant materials. The 361 Satchel Bag adds water-resistant fabric and reinforced stitching at stress points.

For a first cross bag, start with a 3-litre Connect Bag 2 Go for daily errands. For a bit more room, take a 6-litre CUBS sling. See more in CUBS bags, waist bags and women's bags.