Marby K.
I really like the design of the bag, I have it in black+gold and it goes with everything, seems super durable and I can even squish in a cap in case I get caught in the sun! Usually in mine I carry my mask, keys, a cap, hand sanitiser and my phone. I'm honestly surprised it all fit in in the first place. I still have a bit of room to spare. I originally got it with the chain strap, I didn't mind it though it does slip more and is heavier...also the cold chain is kinda unpleasant against skin. But that's all to be expected and no fault of the design itself. I ended up purchasing the faux leather strap seperately and now it's literally my favourite bag! I take it everywhere :D I'll still keep the chain around when I want to dress up a bit, but yeah, I'm super happy with the leather strap. Hands down fav handbag when I want to travel light.
Danica T.
I love the bag itself, great size, durable, and comfortable to carry. Two problems, the smell it has when you first get it, hasn't gone away and I've had it for over 2 years. It's not as strong, but still stronger than I'd care for. Second, DON'T get the cream color one. I have tried EVERYTHING to get it clean and haven't been able to remove ANY of the dirt. All was from regular use, nothing crazy happened to get it dirty. So, I suggest a darker colored one. Overall, I do really like it though, I just wish it didn't look like I've just dragged it through a dirt pile.
Rilee
DONT get the chain strap! Badly designed.
I have never been more frustrated with a bag than this one. The bag itself is lovely, but the chain link strap is horrible. I’ve used the bag for over a year now and I’m constantly having issues with the strap, but today drove me to the edge of insanity. The chain links are shaped in a way that they constantly flip the wrong way and lock up on themselves. I’ve figured out how to undo them, so I never bothered to complain. But the chains are so small that they also get stuck in weird places, like the conveyor belts at the airport. I had a fun time with that one. Today I set my purse down in the passenger seat of my car. The strap fell between the seat and the middle console and the chains twisted and locked up and I CANNOT remove it. It literally cannot be removed without removing the seat, so I’m forced to either leave it, try and cut it with bolt cutters, or take it to a mechanic. I’m honestly so frustrated.
Anne Dudfield
Broke spectacularly in many different ways
Yes I have used this bag very heavily but for so much money I would expect the zipper pulls to stay on, and the strap to not break. Just simple stuff.
Sammie
Worth every penny
I am super picky with my purses, so I was hesitant to buy online. However I had a couple trips planned and looked into anti-theft travel bags. Not only are all the other ones hideous, they seemed really cheap and badly made. Then I found arden cove! Women-owned? Sisters in California (my home state!)? Exchanged emails with one of the girls (lovely) and I got my bag quickly even with free shipping. The bag itself is well made, very sturdy. The girl also told me if there were any issues with the bag I can email her back to fix it! That's service you don't get with cheap bags.
Helen Wu
great
I absolutely love this bag. I got the full size and was big enough to fit 1 portable charger, 1 wifi brick, 1 AirPods, and 2 iPhones. I got the 20in chain and it was the perfect length for me (5ft tall) when wearing it crossbody. I was surprised at how much this small bag can fit! When I was wearing this bag, I felt secure knowing that if someone were to cut open my bag, they won't be able to. The only downside for me was the straps. I got the chain strap with a shoulder pad and the pad kept on falling down. With all the heavy things I was carrying in my bag during my trip, the strap only gave me relive in the beginning and then I felt tired after 10 minutes. The strap kept on sliding down and without the pad, my shoulders would get tired easily. I hope they sew down the pad and the chain together so it stays in place and doesn't have to worry about the pad sliding down and adjusting it throughout the day.
H Hou
Great bag, great service
I got the bag about 10 days prior to my trip to Orlando, however the strap is too short. I emailed customer service to do an exchange but I was worried I wouldn’t get the strap back on time for my trip. The agent understood my situation, went above and beyond to make sure I got my strap on time. I think this is the best cross body bag for traveling. It is compact but also a lot of rooms for your phone, cards, charger,sun glasses...ect. Also waterproof it is so easy to clean. I purchase stuff for quality and services, and I am very satisfied with Arden cove which I will recommend it to everyone!
Emily
Best Bag!
I absolutely love this bag! I have a trip coming up in a couple weeks which is why I purchased it and have been using it as a daily driver until then. This is the most lovely bag, durable, good material, and pretty! The zipper is barely tougher to use than a normal zipper but it is waterproof so that is fine with me. I'm very excited to take it with me to Norway!
Jamie
Great purchase!
I was hesitant to purchase this purse because of the price, but it had all of the features I was interested in and I can say I am very happy with the purchase! There us tons of room to carry everything you need and the hooks stay in place making it difficult for someone to get into the bag. I am very excited to take this traveling with me!
Francesca
Best purchase ever!!!
I never buy expensive bags, but something in my guts told me that was going to be worth it, even if pricey. I didn't regret it! I had this product for over a year now, and I love it! It's my everyday purse, and I don't need an alternative during my trips, because not only is very safe (I love how waterproof it is, and how I can quickly lock the zippers when I take the metro or I am in an overcrowded place), but is also soooo capacious! But all the good qualities don't end here: I had some problems with the zippers, but I didn't want to give up on the product, so I tried to contact the costumer service. Karin has been amazing! She quickly replied to me, and helped me. Not only they have the best products, they also have the best company!
Kristina
Great Customer Service and Perfect Bag for Travel
This is an update to a review I had posted earlier. I updated from three to five starts as after I had reached out to customer service and I had told them that I was still just disappointed with the pilling that appeared on my purse after my first use and even though I tried to reduce the appearance, it wouldn't go away so they offered to replace it it for me. I'm so thankful and happy with their customer service. I'll definitely be ordering another time when I have enough saved up again. I ordered the regular size with 20" strap and it's the perfect size and length (I'm 5'3" for reference). The bag fit all my essentials and I love how it's water resistant. Thank you Arden Cove!
Sarah
My new favorite purse
Took this bag to the UK where it rained EVERY DAY and it kept all of my belongings dry. I also felt secure knowing I had a chain strap, clipped zippers, and RDIF built in wallet. I bought this bag for a trip and now I use it all the time for the organization, I can fit all my essentials plus extra.
Will most likely be purchasing the other strap so I can change the look from time to time.
Dawn
Two years later.. still loving this bag!
I carried this bag around the world for two years! I literally love this bag and it's been attached to my hip everyday! I'm excited to see that they have new colored zippers (a couple years ago they made it with white zippers). I had the purple color with 20" chain and that was perfect for me (5'6" 135 lbs). After two years it was starting to get a bit worn (I am not gentle with my bags either) and with their black friday sale I decided it was time to replace it! This time I got the black color with a faux leather strap as well as their Carmel backpack. The quality seems just as great so I'm excited to use them for the next couple years!
Kristina
Great looking bag but quality didn't hold up
I loved the look of this bag. I was holding out for over a year due to the price of this bag as it was out of my price range for a travel bag and considerably more expensive than other brands. I decided to splurge before my trip however since these bags rarely go on sale. I loved how the zippers are so easy to clasp together for security and the chain strap makes it look fancy. However I was surprised and a bit disappointed to find out that the back of my purse became "pilly" just after this one time use/trip. I am still unsure of the cause although it may have been due to some rubbing against velcro from my rain coat when bothe were packed in my backpack at times. I'm just disappointed that this bag didn't hold up for the price point and considering this was my first use. I usually have no issues with this kind of thing and I don't believe I did anything unusual to have caused this so I'm sad I now have this showing on my new bag after just one use.
Tiffany
Super Handy Bag for Travel
I am such a big fan of this bag, and this company! I've been using this bag for over a year now and it has definitely proven to be a worthwhile purchase. I love it for travel or on the weekends when I'm not carrying as much stuff. There's enough room in the main pocket to hold everything I need while walking around exploring a city, including a small water bottle or portable umbrella! The zipper locks give me a nice peace of mind when I'm walking around or on the subway, knowing I won't get ripped off by a pick pocket very easily, but it's still very easy and smooth to open myself. I recently added a keychain with a card carrier on the key strap inside the bag, which has made it a lot easier to flip any transportation cards outside the bag to scan onto buses and subways, since the bag itself is RFID protected. Suffice to say, this is one of my favorite purses, since it's so well thought out, cute, and functional!
Jennifer Jones
Perfect
I love this bag. It’s one less worry knowing the bag is waterproof, razor proof, and my cards can’t be scanned. It’s durable, stays clean, and looks classy. Best purse ever.
FeiFei
Very practical every day bag
I commute to work on a busy subway every day, and after my wallet was stolen I was looking for a better solution. I am so glad to have found this! I often get anxiety about people getting too close to my bags so it's great to have something that will protect my belongings. It's really been a blessing to have peace of mind after having my belongings stolen.
Stephanie B
Best purchase for my trip!
I bought this to use for a summer trip I went on. First of all, the bag arrived promptly in a very cute box. The girls clearly put a lot of effort into everything, even the little card in their box. I love my bag, took it on my trip, worked perfectly and I'm continuing to use after the trip at home. Honestly I haven't bought anything I love so much as my Arden Cove bags!
Jessica
Great purse, great custromer service
I love this purse, which I bought because my last travel purse got wet in the rain and stained my coat. This one will be much more functional and the features are ideal for my needs. Also, I had some follow-up questions after my purchase, which were dealt with promptly and courteously. Highly recommended.
Laura
Great bag but concerned about the strap.
I'm really excited to use this new bag for my upcoming honeymoon. The bag itself is exactly what I'm looking for but I'm having an issue where the chain seems to be longer on one side of the leather pad so no matter how I carry the bag, the pad does not end up on my shoulder.
Megan V Jenkins
Fashionable and Functional
I love this bag! I got it in cream and I gotta say the color and aesthetic is stunning! I was a bit worried about purchasing it at first because I read reviews about the color transfer from other clothes (jeans); however, having had it for a couple of weeks now (and yes...wearing jeans) it really isn't that bad. I definitely recommend wiping it down after each use just to prevent long term stain, but Arden Cove is so amazing in the fact that they created a YouTube video dedicated to this issue! The bag is honestly amazing in that it's not just gorgeous, but also functional. In today's age, there are a lot of women who seek utility in their products and want more than just a "brand" bag. I was really searching for a safe, cute, anti-theft bag for my internship commutes to D.C. and I gotta say Arden Cove is AMAZING! The bag is very well made, the material is by no means cheap; which looking back at the price it's actually very fair and one of my favorite purchases this year!! I have no complaints;)
Briana
Love this bag!
So cute and functional! This bag is extremely well built, and I love that it’s safe without compromising looks.
Neera
Exceeded expectations
I purchased the full size maroon crossbody. I was going to a part of Europe with a lot of pickpockets. And I wanted a smaller travel purse. I am NOT a light packer & didn’t know if it would be a good experience. The purse was perfect! I fit my credit cards, passports and money perfectly in the front. On the inside I had hand sanitizer. My cell phone, both sunglasses & regular glasses in their full size hard cases, pens, Kleenex, and a few other odds and ends. It all fit nicely. It forced me to be organized which is a good thing. The locks were convenient to access if I needed something. I really had peace of mind carrying it. Plus it is adorable! Also I had zero shoulder pain. The leather piece on the metal strap kept the bag balanced on my shoulder. My purses and bra straps always slide off my shoulders which is why I wear crossbody purses. I got the 18” strap cause I’m 5’. It fit but was a little clingy. It turned out ok because of the strap design & never slipped off my shoulder. If you’re skinny you will probably be able to use it as a crossbody with this strap length. I now use it as my everyday purse at home. My only criticism is I would like a size big enough to fit a water bottle but is not a backpack.
Jenni
love it
I'm so happy with my purchase. It fits my kindle and water bottle (sideways but good enough), plus all the anti-theft features so I'm extremely pleased. In person it looks the same as the photos. The waterproof zippers are tight but good quality- my other waterproof backpack is also YKK so I know the brand is good. Very happy customer!
Nicole
HEAVY
I love everything about this bag except for the chain strap. I ordered in June 2019 and had read that the company made the chain lighter prior to this, thus taking care of earlier complaints. I thought the chain was cuter and trusted the lighter advertising but I did not find it light at all. If I carried things in the bag it was super uncomfortable because of the heavy strap. So much so that I stopped using the purse. It was also very uncomfortable to carry with a backpack, even if I put the backpack on first and then put on the purse.
I ordered the fabric strap recently and it's so much better. It's comfortable and the purse is very lightweight. I like the water resistant feature and find the purse easy to use otherwise. Wish I would've ordered the fabric strap initially.
Kathryn J
A must buy for traveling!
I love my Arden Cove bag! It was so cute that I started using it as soon as it came in, even though I got it for a trip to Italy. The whole time we were in Italy, I felt comfortable and secure knowing that our important belongings were safe. It’s an absolute must for traveling! The size was absolutely perfect. I debated getting the backpack, but I’m glad I didn’t because this was plenty big. I wish I would’ve gotten the covered strap instead of the chain, because even though I like the look, it would dig into my should after long days. I definitely recommend this bag, though!
VAL
Perfect size
I got my bag in maroon and I like it. It's a perfect size for travel. There are two features that I'm not crazy about, shoulder pad and the zipper. I love the chain link but the shoulder pad is very stiff. I'd prefer it to be a bit softer or more pliable. The zipper, I appreciate the tight closure making it fully water proof, but zipper is very hard to open n close. I took the bag out one day, it was very hard to get into the bag while walking. If I wanted chapstick or something I had to fully stop and use both hands to hold and unzip. Other than these two things, I love the bag.
Barbara Parks
Best bag I have ever owned!!
I ordered my first one about 2 years ago (blue), thought is was cute and liked the features. This is my go-to bag, it carries everything I need and is compact, I love the compartments and the stylishness of it. I get complements all the time about what a cute bag it is. Like it so much I ordered another one (burgandy) about 6 months ago, for something different, and just ordered a black one for fall and winter. Mind you there is nothing wrong with the other 2, I just like a variety of colors!! When you make a green one, hint, hint, I am sure I will order that one too!! Thank you for making such a great product!!
Jennifer W.
Great casual bag
I bought this bag in black back in 2017, and it has definitely held up over the past 2 years! The bag still looks good as new. It's perfect for running errands and for traveling light. However, I'm definitely more of a girl who likes to have everything I need on me, especially when I travel--so this crossbody is a little small for my traveling needs. (I recently bought the Surie satchel to fit that bill, so I'll post another review about that one after I take my Europe trip this summer!)
My only gripe was that the chain was a bit heavy for the bag, and it constantly fell and got stuck in places (between my car seat and the console, between the cracks in theater chairs, etc.). Of course, I understand that the most un-slashable thing would be a chain, but I'm eager to try the leather strap. Overall though, great bag for girls on the go!
Meagan S
Nice but missing D-ring
Just received my bag. Looks very nice, but one main feature I was looking for was the interior D-ring to secure my keys and unfortunately my bag came missing this feature.
Selena
Perfect Travel Bag- Must Have!
I don't know why all travel bags don't have all these features. The clasps, RFID blocking, slash resistant, waterproof. This is the travel bag of all travel bags. The perfect day bag when you're abroad. I feel so much secure without looking like a tourist. I will enjoy using this for all my trips!
Helen F
Lovely bag
I received this as a gift for my birthday and I love it! I'm just blown away by all the features and it looks beautiful
Annie Chang
Convenient to use
So I bought the full crossbody with chain strap in black for my trip to Barcelona and Paris, it was super convenient to carry all my necessities as well as the bag being light. I love how the bag is water resistant which was helpful since it did rain 1 day in Barcelona during my trip and I didn't have an umbrella. The only reason I didn't give the back a 5 star review is because after my trip, the seams for the pocket to hold the cellphone is already coming undone. I've only used it for this trip and for it to fall apart already is disappointing...
Doreen Archambeault
Purse
I just received my Full Crossbody with chain strap. I just LOVE LOVE LOVE this bag! It’ll be perfect for Scotland and Ireland moist weather!!!
Thank you!
Suzzie M
Exceeds Expectations
I wasn't sure about ordering this online, but my experience was great. They replied quickly to my emails, shipping was fast (3 days with free shipping), bag arrived and it looks good! I was worried if there would be problems with the item since I didn't see it beforehand but they were reassuring that if there were any problems they would replace it. Better than other businesses that just just nonsense and ignore your emails!! The bag itself seems very sturdy and I've been enjoying it the last few days. Going on a trip next month so I will be bringing this with me.
Chitra
Good!
Impressed by the speed of shipping. I placed an order at the start of the week and, being Canadian, I did not expect to see it for at least a month. But by the end of the week it was here! I like that it is faux leather, its sturdiness, and ofc all of the safety features. I haven't tried out the product so I cannot say its durability. The only thing that bothers me is the nylon since it gives me goosebumps to touch it... lol anyone else? I am gonna try to brace through it though. Anyway, what I am really impressed with is the customer service. I am always happy to support a small business. Keep in mind USD to CAD is absolutely horrific lol. But hoping it's worth it lol.
Dany
Perfect for this summer!
Bought this since I have a couple upcoming trips, particularly a 3 week trip to Southeast Asia. I've already taken it to a trip to Hawaii earlier this month and it was perfect for holding everything I need and I like knowing it's waterproof as I did a lot of outdoor activities by the water. Well made, held up so far, looks great. I can even take the bag to a nice dinner! Their customer service was also great (email).
Catie D.
Resilient Bag!
I purchased this purse for my 2 week honeymoon on a Mediterranean cruise. We were in the heart of Rome, Florence, Barcelona and other cities known for pick-pocketing. I felt so confident with this bag and never once felt in danger of getting things stolen. I even forgot it was on most of the time while I took photos with my camera! Just lock that baby up and go on with your trip. Now (a year after my honeymoon!), this has become my everyday purse. Stitching and pockets are all still perfectly in tact - and this bag has been through a lot. Living near theme parks, it has been on almost every water ride in Orlando and since its waterproof, it protects me from getting even more soaked! Only downside is that I've gotten some sunscreen on the bag more than once and that doesn't seem to want to come out of the fabric, but I can live with that for a bag that feels so secure AND stylish! Love it. Even got my mom and mother-in-law to buy one too! Hope to get another color soon :).
Hannah s
Spring showers have met their match!
Just wanted to say I LOVE that this bag is so cute and functional. Took it on a trip when it was just POURING outside. I was wet as a downed cat, but my belongings were safe and dry.
LeVex
Very Disappointed :(
I bought this bag as a gift for my daughter since she travels a lot. It was purchased 01/30/19 and 3 months later the middle stitching inside that holds the 2 pockets has come apart causing both pockets to completely pull away from the bag. It’s past the allotted & short time frame to return the bag or exchange it. If Arden Cove had faith in the quality of this product a warranty for a longer period would be in place to cover customers that experience issues of this same nature. Since it’s an expensive purchase my daughter just isn’t going to use the pockets anymore. She’s picky & takes very good care of her stuff so I definitely know the stitching problem isn’t due to abuse or misuse. And the 2 inner pockets only held her sunglasses & keys. If your company is going to charge higher prices for these bags.. then please ensure the quality of the product will endure & pockets are double stitched.. it should last longer than cheaper bags that have the same security features. I won’t purchase again from Arden Cove, because of the disappointing quality & short return/replacement policy. Disappointed customer :|
Hannah
This bag is my new best friend
I bought the full crossbody with chain bag ahead of a trip to New York and was so happy with my purchase once I started sight-seeing in the Big Apple.
There was lots of room for my rather large wallet, my big eyeglasses case, phone, keys, lipstick and travel brochures. Having the ability to lock the zippers is a massive bonus and gave me peace of mind throughout the trip. We had one day of heavy rain but I didn't have to worry about it damaging the inside contents as the bag is waterproof. To top it all off, the versatility of its style made it possible for me to use the bag on tourist outings during the day as well as to more upscale restaurants in the evening.
I am looking forward to bringing this bag on my next European adventure.
Jessica
Love this bag but...
I am using the bag daily when flitting between stores and grocery shopping but have a bigger bag I put it in as my daily/commuter bag. That being said it’s a great little bag. I was able to adjust the chain strap where I like it for the pad and it doesn’t seem to move around like other reviews said, so that’s been great.
The only big disappointment is that the thread between the two front pockets has completely unraveled and so now it’s just a sad limp pocket and nothing is staying organized. I’m pretty sad that happened already because I otherwise love the bag. I may have to see if someone local can repair/resew it.
Catherine a Carmichael
Check in
So I have used this bag as my daily bag for about 3 months now and it still looks great! I was worried because some people made comments about zippers but my work just a well al the day I got it. No flaking on the gold either. I’ve had this bag in a rain storm with none of my stuff getting too. Plus it is so easy to clean. I highly recommend this bag!
Sarah K
LOOOOOOVE this bag
So I bought this bag for my upcoming honeymoon in Southeast Asia, but I was too excited to wait so I've been using it as my daily purse and I'm loving it. It's stylish so that it at first glance it doesn't appear to be the wonder bag it is, but also makes me feel more secure about my belongings because I know my cards are safe. I also love that it's waterproof. You don't realize how much you appreciate a waterproof bag until it starts raining and you don't have to frantically try and hide it under your clothes. Thinking about buying a bigger one to match. :)
Jen
Great purse!
The purse was well constructed and held everything I needed. I recommend you follow the instructions for measuring the strap. I am short (5ft) and didn’t take the time to follow directions when ordering. I just ordered the shortest strap and it was a little short even for me but that was my fault
Meredith
Stylish bag with lots of room - the chain is super annoying
First of all, I love this bag, I really do. It is cute, and it's plenty big enough to carry all the stuff I needed while traveling around Europe (phrase books, phone, sunglasses, keys, etc.). My only two complaints (and I'm pretty sure I understand one of them) are the zippers and the chain strap.
The zippers are REALLY hard to open. You have to basically be holding the bag with one hand in order to open the zipper because they are so "heavy" (for lack of better word). I think I get why this is (so that people can't easily open your bag when you're not paying attention), but it is almost impossible to open one-handed. If you're holding anything in your other hand (a phone or an umbrella, etc.) know that you will have to set everything down to open your Arden Cove bag, which, when it's raining, can be incredibly frustrating. Again, good for safety, but annoying for practical use.
The only other complaint I had was with the chain strap. I should have, in hindsight, invested in the leather strap. The chain twists constantly, which drove me insane, and the little leather shoulder pad that it comes with slides very easily. If the shoulder pad slides off your shoulder the twisted chain (and trust me, it WILL be twisted) digs into your shoulder. I had several days of knotted shoulders because of this.
While this sounds negative on the whole I really liked the bag. Just be aware of the two things I mentioned ahead of time!
Jenna
Perfect Travel Purse!
I absolutely love my Arden Cove purse! I ordered it with the chain strap, but I also ended up purchasing the leather strap so that I can change it when I want to.
I have seen some mention of zipper issues, but mine is absolutely perfect. The zip is somewhat hidden, and it gives the purse a sleek look.
It's super lightweight, which is very important to me, as I travel often and pack this purse in my carry-on. The pockets are placed sensibly, and they help the purse function well.
I love the look of the purse. It's just big enough to fit my Kindle, Epi-pens, keys, and other things, but it's small enough that it's easily a purse for every day.
I have worn it several times in the rain, as well, and it's held up through everything!
Emily
Zipper issues
I was so excited to finally find a STYLISH anti-theft bag to bring with me on my honeymoon across Asia. I was so pleased with the bag itself, it looked as pictured, it is roomy and is such a cute little purse.
However, the first day into our honeymoon I began to have issues with the zipper on the top section of the bag. No matter what we tried to do, whenever I would pull on the zipper to unzip my bag the ENITRE zipper connector would fall off completely. We would always put it back on, but it would never fail to fall off again. We eventually stopped trying to reattach after the 6th time (which only took 2 days to happen that many times), so for the rest of my honeymoon (1.5 weeks) I had to open and close my bag by sliding my finger against the zipper section.
I wanted to love this bag so bad, but it really turned out to be truly disappointing due to its faulty manufactoring.
Catherine Carmichael
First Impresion
This is my first impression while just getting the bag. I will try to remember to post another review in a few months to let you guys know how it held up long-term .
To start with, it got to me very fast. I live in Ohio and it shipped from San Diego. I ordered Tuesday night and I received it by 3 pm Thursday that same week. I wish this site allowed pictures because the packaging was beautiful. I've paid way more for things that don't look half as good.
The purse itself was just as good as the pictures show. I'm 5ft and got the 18in chain. It fits right at my hip and the shoulder pad moves if you wanna keep it behind your back or in front of you. If you are bustier you might want to get a longer chain because there isn't much wiggle room on the length. The zippers are very sturdy and I'm not surprised since they are YKK. It has snowed here so it's been fine so far with moisture but i haven't had to deal with rain now.
So far I highly recommend.
Laura
Practically perfect in every way
This purse is little but mighty. In the front pocket, I store my less used cards and cash in the slots, while still having room for my mini wallet and phone (which has a thin case and PopSocket). In the large pocket, I can fit all kinds of stuff! I have things like my sunglasses, lipsticks, mini mirror, keys, tissue pack...honestly you can fit a ton of little things. It could easily fit my Kindle Paperwhite (cannot confirm about other Kindles).
I have only one tiny complaint and that is that I wish the top of the bag would maintain its structure a little better. It tends to round off, with the zipper poking up higher than the seams. I'm sure it's just an effect of me occasionally picking it up in from the top, but I have tried to do that less since I noticed this.
Ruthie
Absolutely LOVE it
When I bought my full crossbody bag, I instantly fell in love. I bought the bag in navy and was too afraid that the color would be very bright. Fortunately it was not and it goes with everything I wear, so it's definitely practical for me to take on my trips. I love how the wallet is built in and the bag is more spacious than it seems, which is a good thing. I was definitely in search of a decent travel bag, but was often frustrated by the amount of things I carried to protect my important stuff - pretty much almost every item had a bag of its own and I always had the hassle of digging deep to find my things. The full crossbody bag is definitely the perfect travel bag for me without all the hassle. I'm so glad to have found a bag that I can carry confidently while traveling abroad. I will be definitely looking out for more of Arden Cove's products in the future.
Tiffany
Stylish and practical
I absolutely love this bag! It keeps your belongings secure, while not making you look too much like a tourist. I hope they make a mid size bag similar to this style someday as well. I would definitely buy it. So many of the larger bags from other companies carry more, but they are kind of ugly so it would be great if they offered a larger purse as well to give you more options. My advice, size up on the strap size if you wear a larger bra size. I ordered mine based on height alone and ended up having to purchase another longer strap.
Linda
Great bag! water *resistant*
I ordered the Full Crossbody with chain strap in black
First, I'd like to say how amazing Arden Cove is with their customer service!
Upon first receiving the bag I noticed a large imperfection on the front.
I reached out thinking they'd thank me for my purchase and just say it is what it is. I was pleasantly surprised that Karin agreed that it was a larger imperfection than it should be and that after I shipped the bag back, they'd send a replacement out.
In order to guarantee I got my replacement in time for my trip, I paid to ship it back Fedex overnight out of my own pocket.
Replacement came and I was off!
The bag is GREAT! It's the perfect size for me and I love the simple design.
The only downside for me is that the bag is not waterproof. In my opinion, it should be advertised as water *resistant*
I spent a day in the rain (at a mostly indoor amusement park) and everything in my bag got wet. Not soaking wet, but wet enough to have ruined some paperwork, soaked my bills and makeup that I had inside. The front pocket was worse than the main compartment. I will say that it certainly would have gotten soaked in another bag, but think they should amend the description to water resistant. In the future, I'll use ziplock bags to protect the important stuff from the rain.
I will absolutely buy from Arden Cove again! I've already got my eye on the pink/gold bag ;)
Sheila Whittle
LOVE LOVE LOVE
This is the only purse I wear now! I travel often and feel so safe with this crossbody and the locking zippers. Also, I searched high and low to find a cute waterproof purse, and this is it!
Rose
Absolutely perfect!
I bought one of these about one year ago to bring on a 3-week vacation all over Italy. It was the perfect purse for the trip, I loved how I didn't have to carry a (bulky) separate wallet, I could attach my bag securely to my chair when I was at a restaurant, and it comfortably carried everything I could ever need as a traveler (including my Kindle Oasis!). I absolutely love this purse and highly recommend it for travel or everyday!
Tiffany
Not too touristy
I got mine today and it’s gorgeous . Especially loved the quality and careful, not to mention cute, packaging. It doesn’t make you look like a tourist and is very stylish. A word of advice, when selecting strap length don’t just consider your height, but your bra size if you’re going to wear as a crossbody. I’m going to have to order a bigger size.
Tracey
Fantastic
I am a return buyer ... not because the bags I already have from the indiegogo campaign wore out but because they STILL look brand new and I want another colour.
The best travel bag ever but I use it every day ... and the RFID protection works so well that it can trigger low battery alerts in my remote car key .. Not a complaint, a sign it does exactly what it claims to do.
Plus OMG, people all the time ask me where I got my designer bag. I am a big fan of the chain handle too, I find it super comfortable to wear and it doesn’t rub on clothes.
Jacqueline
PERFECT
I spent so much time looking for a perfect bag for me when I travel abroad. I didn't want a backpack as I wanted something easier to walk around with easy access to my phone, wallet, etc. Most bags I found online either didn't have the theft protection I was looking for, or was just not fashionable enough. Well let me tell you, this bag is EXACTLY what I've been looking for! It has everything I wanted for anti-theft purposes for someone traveling to a foreign country. Not to mention, it's very fashionable and looks just like a regular purse. I ordered the navy and when it came in the mail, I was even more pleasantly surprised than expected. This bag is beautiful. And the Navy color goes with practically anything. And it does actually fit quite a few items, more than you would expect from just the pictures. I now feel safe and fashionable when I travel abroad. Thank you so much Arden Cove for inventing the perfect travel purse!!!!!!!!! :)
Linda Chen
Best Bag
I picked the pink/gold one because everything was out of stock. I love chic this bag made me look!!! People gave me so many compliments about the bag. My dad even thought I had bought a Gucci. That’s just mean how much of an amazing bag it is. I wanted to get another one but they are always out of stock. The packaging was cute too! I keep my personal things in the box. My only problem with the box was the shipping sticker that I cannot take off! Everything else is great! Would buy again as soon as I receive my paycheck and the bags are in stock!
Kelsey
Pink Gold is pretty!
I was so excited to see the pink when they did the poll on Instagram. It's pretty cool that they asked followers to vote on the new color! In person the pink is really pretty- not too light pastel or too dark. The gold is a pretty pale gold- not yellow or green. My niece liked it so much I am thinking of just giving it to her and buying a Pink-black combo since it looks great too.
The bag itself feels well constructed. I like that it's vegan leather that doesn't feel cheap! I've had so many other vegan leather bags that were just awful. The zipper is in a matching pink and is smooth but tighter than a regular zipper. At first I wasn't sure if that's normal but I think it is the case with any waterproof zipper since the "tape" seals shut to keep water out. It's not too hard, just more than a normal zipper so I think it's worth mentioning.
The pockets inside are a good size and well thought out. You can actually fit a deceptively large amount. The lining feels really soft and silky. I like that they chose a light color to make it easy to see everything inside, though I will have to be careful with any pens & makeup I throw in there. That's the case with anything if you like the look of the lighter color palette which I do!
I know other reviews already mentioned this but customer service is on top of their game! I usually am hesitant to buy something online that I haven't seen in person so I emailed to ask some questions and they always answered super quickly.
Caitlyn
Fantastic customer service, upgraded durability
I had issues with another crossbody, where the zipper slider body gouged into the tape and jammed itself, and I couldn't close the main compartment (11/10/18). I wasn't sure about the return and exchange policy and if that had been covered under it, but customer service contacted me about the problem, and exchanged my bag, no problem! I love how cute the bag is while still being durable and light weight, and the new zippers seem much sturdier. I'm super excited to take it on trips! Thanks so much, you guys!
Barbara Parks
Love this bag!!
I love a small bag. This one really fits the bill!!! Carries all the essentials, I bought a blue one, love it, I get tons of compliments on it. As a matter of fact, loved it so much, I bought a maroon one.
Caitlyn
Pretty, but the zipper broke with a month
I really like how lightweight and we'll constructed it is, eeeexcept the zippers. The zipper to the main compartment on mine developed a tear in the lining, just from me opening and closing it, and now I can't zip that compartment. I've only used it for a month, and now I can't use it.
Lizzy
Perfect for rainy international travel!
I bought this bag originally just for the anti theft features. However, the waterproof feature proved to be the best when I traveled around rainy Iceland and Ireland! I find myself using this bag even when I’m not traveling because it is so stylish and the perfect size. I carried mine for 15 hours a day on my last vacation and the strap kept it comfortable and in place. I fit all my necessities and a larger camera as well! Great bag
Nikki Creighton
Great bag
I bought mine before our trip to Italy. It was excellent. I was able to keep my hand on the zipper clasps when we were in crowds which helped me feel secure. I did switch out the chain strap for the leather one. I found the chain really heavy and I would have found that cumbersome to carry around but the leather one was great. Overall, a great bag and I'll be taking it on all my travels.
Virginia Rodriguez
It would be nice if the bag is a little bigger to fit in a little more stuff. The chain strap is rather noisy and cumbersome.
It would be nice if the bag is a little bigger to fit in a little more stuff. The chain strap is rather noisy and cumbersome.
Kelly
Love it!
Just got my Arden cove bag and it’s perfect! It’s a great size, cute, sleek, and super functional! I love that this design is clearly thought up by women as it’s practical but also looks good. Also customer service was exceptional. Carmen answered all of my questions and it was delivered in two days! I bought a second bag for my mother-in-law. Thank you!
Meredith Watson
My review of cream bag
Used the bag on a trip to Europe and enjoyed it. It got a bit dirty and have not been able to get it completely clean and I wish it was a little bit larger....I need 3 prs of glasses!
Lil
Love it, should have picked a different color
I love my cream cross body with a chain strap. I took this purse to Europe in June and a man tried to pull it off and run away. He succeeded in pulling out two of my earrings when he tried to yank it over my head, but he did not get the purse.
It has a place for everything I needed, and in travels through France and Spain, Puerto Rico, St. Maarten, and Haiti I felt secure that my important items were safe with me.
The only thing I wish i had done differently was order it in a different color. My mother told me to order the grey (which I did like), but the rebellious child in me (at 47 years old) ordered the cream just to spite her. It got dirty fairly quickly and doesn't clean off.
Even though i have been home for months, I still carry this because it is super convenient and everything has a place. Overall great purse. Don't order the cream.
Catey
Best. Travel. Purse. Ever>
I recently bought the black crossbody bag for a trip to London/Barcelona and it was perfect! Fit everything I needed and it is great having the card slots in the front pocket so I didn't have to carry a bulky wallet! Super chic - went with every outfit - and love the waterproof feature, which is needed in the sometimes dreary London.
Definitely looking into getting more items for future trips!
Kiki B
Best travel purse!
I bought this cross body for travel to Europe. Even with the chain strap it is light weight and it's size is deceptive. It held everything I needed. It was comfortable to carry and is stylish enough to use everyday for work, or to go out in the evenings. I don't worry about anyone getting into the bag with the clips for the zippers and the antiskimming protection in the front pocket is a bonus. I used this on a cruise to Mexico and in Greece this summer and would often find my sunscreen had rubbed off onto the sides of the bag. No problem, just wipe clean with a damp cloth. I LOVE this bag.
Jacklyn Lee
Perfect Travel Purse!
I love this bag so much! I've used it for all my trips throughout North America, Europe, and Asia. The locking zippers provide extra security against pick-pocketers and the pockets inside the bag allow enough space to store everything you need. I was able to fit my camera, cell phone, external battery, and wallet inside the purse. I purchased this bag plus the additional leather strap since it is more comfortable.
Arden Cove's customer service was also on point! They are so prompt and willing to help you find the right solution to any of your issues.
Love this company and love their products! Keep up the good work ladies!
Linda Ball
I love it!
This is a beautiful, smart looking bag. I bought it for a trip to Ireland and the UK, and it did rain, and it is waterproof! My only wish is that it was just a little larger - not much because no one wants to carry a big heavy purse when traveling, but I could have used a bit more room.
Katie
Not Waterproof
I was so exited to use this bag. It was holding up well on my vacation until it started raining. The zippers were well secured, but the nylon exterior soaked through dissolving any receipts I had and getting my electronics wet. I will be returning this bag.
Ashley M Webb
Fantastic Product and Customer Service
I want to shout out to Arden Cove Customer Service who went above and beyond to make sure I received my Arden Cove bag before my trip. They were patient, communicative, and friendly. The shipping issues could have been a terrible situation but they made it work. Cheers to them!
I also received my purchase today and I couldn't be happier! It's just lovely. It's totally unlike any other travel purse I've seen. Top quality materials and construction. It reminds me very much of a classic Chanel bag. I am looking forward to putting lots of travel miles on my new Arden Cove!
Vicky
One of my best backing decision!
You deliver as you promise. The bag is very well made. The card section is a bit tight and may feel thin at first, but they work very well. The chain is very substantial and I’m sure will not break. I have a full size which can hold A Lot despite being small looking. I love mine and now that I see they have an all-leather strap, I want to order that, too.
Lexi
Perfect for me at home and away from home!
I just received my bag in the mail yesterday which I was anxiously excited about since I leave for a trip to Italy in two weeks, where I’ll be trying it out for the first time. I ordered the full sized chain strap bag in black and it’s the perfect size for me to fit everything I need in it. I bought it with the intention of using it on my trip, but also using it at home because it’s a super cute bag and it’s proven very convient for everything I need it for. For me there was no bad smell like some of the reviews say and it was packed up with a lot of care. I loved supporting Arden Cove and I am sure I will be back for more in the future! Thanks for making an amazing product that makes me feel a million times safer and also stylish anywhere I go (:!
Kashlee Kucheran
The only purse I need!
I have been using this bag as my ONLY purse for a full year now. I travel full time and my #1 priority is to keep my belongings and my information safe, so this purse is a game changer for me.
I love the cut-proof chain, the slash-proof material, it's waterproof and it keeps RFID readers from stealing my credit card info.
I get compliments on it all the time as I wear it through Europe, Asia, Canada and the States!
The midi size is perfect for me as it holds all my cards, phone, small camera, passport, a few key makeup items and my TEP wireless hotspot.
I know they have a new line coming out soon and I will be the first in line to get any other bag styles they put out.
There is no reason to spend 10x's the money on a purse that has no security features when this brand has it all.
LOVE my Arden Cove!
Nicole
Amazing Quality! Gorgeous Style!
I received these bags in incredible condition and very good packaging so they were not damaged AT ALL during shipping. There was a little blip during the shipping but Karin fixed it ASAP. She’s incredible. My first impression of this set was WOW. They’re so gorgeous and they’re such good quality. I’m so excited to use these as I’m a frequent traveler because of work’ they’re also so professional looking they go with everything.
Bianca
Perfect bag for travel and every day
So I contemplated purchasing this bag ever since the launch and I am so happy I took the plunge and finally ordered it! I am a flight attendant so I am always in new places and climates and this purse is perfect for work and play. It keeps everything so organized and makes it so easy to grab my id or credit cards one handed while pulling my suitcase when I'm going through the airport. My upcoming trip to Thailand during the water festival for Thai new year was my kick to finally purchase this bag but I got to test the bags waterproofing in Hawaii when a rogue wave went too far up the shore to where I was sunbathing with friends. Needless to say my stuff was bone dry but unfortunately theirs was not. This bag is the perfect mix of function and beautiful minimal fashion. I bought the black to be compliant with my uniform but will be purchasing the cream and the mini soon! Thank you for making such a great bag!
Shella
Full Crossbody!
I received my full crossbody today and I am extremely impressed with how my bag was packaged! You can definitely tell they have put a lot of thought and effort ensuring your bag gets delivered in perfect condition! And the functionality of the bag and the design itself are two check marks in my book!
What also brought to my attention is how it takes a bit of effort to unzip the bag! I'm not sure if over time it'll be easier to unzip. However, I think of it as an additional layer of protection if you forget to latch the locks on. It makes it a little harder for someone to unzip!
Otherwise, this bag is excellent and I look forward to using this for travel and everyday use!
Fiona
Perfect for everyday bag
This is great for everyday use as well as for travel. I got the full in black, mini in grey, and the corresponding leather straps so that I can switch between chain and leather strap. The front pocket has plenty of card slots- they were a little tight but loosened up with use so I don't even need to carry a wallet plus they are RFID blocking! I feel more comfortable knowing that my items are safe and I can lock it up in crowded places.
I am 5'6" 140 lbs and 20" strap was perfect. In regard to bag sizes, I would say the full is good if you carry something larger (a small journal, iPad mini, and kindle all fit, but not a larger tablet.) I carry my keys, cards, phone, makeup, phone charger, and sunglasses and there's still plenty of space. But, if you carry a TON of things, it is a relatively smaller big. I love it though, as I don't like having a heavy bag. The mini is great if you don't need too much, and just need the minimum (keys, cards, phone, lip balm). It's perfect for dates and errand running.
I read that there was a smell, but it smelled like a new bag to me. Went away quickly and didn't notice it at all.
I also love that there is a ring to attach my keys so I can always find them quickly! A+++
Linda M
Perfect Present for Travel Lovers
I got this bag as a xmas gift from my BF and I LOVE it! Our new years resolution is to travel more and I showed him this bag so he got it for me!! The maroon is very pretty purple-red, and will look soo nice in our photos in our future trips. The quality is very nice, just as nice as my expensive bags, and it feels very sturdy. It will be perfect for our trip to hawaii this month!
Mariéva
j'adore
en fait , j'ai recommandé un grand model d'une autre couleur. ça veut tout dire!
KrysK12
Full Crossbody
I just received my crossbody in the mail yesterday and I absolutely love its style, quality and functionality! I purchased the full size in navy. I like how care free I can be with this bag as far as not having to worry if it rains.
Yammi
Perfect bag for the wonderlust
I️ bought this bag for my first solo trip to Europe! I️ was meeting my friend for two legs of my journey, but Paris was going to be my solo piece. As you know it’s pretty scary to travel alone especially to a country where you don’t speak the language, but with my Arden Cove bag, I️ felt at least secure that my passport, cash, and cards were safe. I️ went out at night and rode packed trains knowing that no one could steal from me because my bag locked and was rfi id proof! I didn’t fear running through the rain with this waterproof bag which happened the day before I️ left. Ever since then, this has been the only bag I’ve taken on my travels. If you’re a wonderlust like me, then this is the perfect bag for you!
Karen
Love my go-to bag!
My Arden Cove bag has been my go-to bag ever since I bought and received it! With so many pretty color options to go with its classic design, it was really hard for me to choose just one. I ended up getting the gray bag and love how well it goes with so many of my outfits for all kinds of occasions--dates, shopping trips, vacations, casual/formal events, etc, and fits all my daily essentials (phone, keys, some makeup, cash/cards, sunglasses, even some shopping bags)!
All the subtle details and features of this bag are what makes it so unique. Since it's waterproof, I never have to worry about spilling anything on it or having it go through some tough weather! The best part is that it's also anti-theft and doesn't even look like the usual clunky anti-theft traveling bags you find everywhere else.
I highly recommend investing in one of these beautifully designed and all-purpose bags!
Terumi
Great for Travel & Everyday use!
I've got this purse in the full size and in navy blue and absolutely love it! What I love about it are the pockets and built in card slots. Instead of carrying my wallet around, I'll just slip my ID and credit card in. It makes traveling lighter and more convenient. So far I've brought it on several trips - to South Korea, Singapore, and Hong Kong. I also got the mini one in maroon for my mom and she's been using it as her everyday purse.
Kara
Best Travel Purse Ever!
Where has this bag been all my life!?! brought the large bag on my honeymoon across 5 different countries. It was big enough to fit my camera, wallet, sunnies, phone, 2 passports and cash. I loved the little clips to make sure nobody would steal from us!
Mandy
Best travel hand bag
I love this hand bag! I got the larger size and everything about it is perfect. I don't think there's anything that could be done better. The inbuilt wallet saves so much space. The handle on the chain feels so good, I thought it would be hard and stiff like other ones but it moulds to your shoulder for perfect comfort and is flexible. I use it as my everyday handbag now as well. I got compliments on it straight away. Really good customer service too. Thanks Arden Cove for designing such a well thought out and practical hand bag.
Yolande
Combo is the best way to go!
We bought the set of two handbags: the big one is beige and the small black. Both colours are easy for matching clothes. The clean line design makes them look classy. On the practical side, the material is waterproof and pick pocket proof. There are so many compartments inside the big one; you can put cards, cosmetics and there's even room for a book! The small black one would be very useful for evening occasions where you would only ned to put your money and phone inside which is why it's definitely worth getting the combo deal as the larger bag is more suited for day use.
Bernadette
Full Crossbody
I received my full Crossbody bag today. I love it. In one of the reviews someone mentioned an odor, but I don’t agree. It just smells like a new leather purse. Not offensive at all. When I placed my order I chose the black but the next morning I had second thoughts and emailed the company to see if I could change to the grey before it was shipped. I received an email from Carmen within a couple hours letting me know that they would send me the grey instead of the black without having to cancel the order and starting over. How wonderful that was. Thank you. I received the purse within 3 days. From CA to PA, that’s pretty amazing. I did order a longer chain today. I’m not as thin as the models so the purse doesn’t really land exactly where I would like. I will take both with me to London and see how it goes. Great job girls!!
Kat
Well made, perfect length, looks amazing!
I just received my gray full sized crossbody with 20" chain and couldn't be happier.
Pros:
It's well made. The seams and stitching are neat and tidy, and there are no threads or fabric hanging out anywhere. The places where the piping comes together are in inconspicuous places. All of the materials seem like they're pretty high quality. The vinyl fabric feels nice, and the "leather" piping/trim has a nice texture.
The waterproof zippers look great. They add a nice matte black edging around the bag. They almost look like a decorative element rather than a functional one which is pretty cool.
The bag seems to have good structure, and doesn't seem like it would get bent out of shape easily though I haven't tested it yet.
I like all of the pocket and slot options, but I also like that the interior of the bag doesn't feel micro-managed. There's plenty of open space for me to figure out my own organization strategy.
I'm 5'4", ~115lbs, and I chose the 20" strap. It fits exactly as I expected it to given the helpful strap length guides on the website (these ladies thought of everything!)
Cons:
I wish it was available with real leather trim, but I get that there might be reasons for not doing that.
There's a slight chemical smell, but it's not overwhelming and I expect it will go away as it airs out. I can smell it if I actually sniff the bag, but not like a foot away, so it's really not that bad.
Overall: 9/10 would buy again :)
Melissa
Great bag, glad I got both sizes.
I purchased the full size one in cream and was a little nervous since light colored purses are so hard to keep looking nice. No worries with this one since it is so easy to just use a little soap and water and wash off any marks or dirt. The chain doesn't get tangled either and is very comfortable. It holds everything I need and when I feel like using something smaller I love the mini in navy. It is small and convenient but still very attractive. These are definitely worth the price and you get so much use out of them because they go with everything.
Mary Miller
Buy the larger bag!
The mini is nice, but unfortunately it's a bit too small for day use especially if you need to take another pair of glasses with you or need to have multiple items w/you, say your phone. It's great for an evening out. Main pluses are that it's theft proof and the grey color w/black accents was a nice change from my normal black purse for evening use. Main downside is that the chain strap makes the bag very heavy before you put anything in it.
Rebecca
Cuteness
This is the cutest and most stylish bag ever. I love how great it is and it is anti theft. I cant wait to try it out where I work and on my next travel destination. I think it will even be stylish enough to go to Europe and not look too cheap or tacky. Love this bag!
Bri
Cute, Functional, Practical!
Mini bag was even better than I had expected. Thick durable material and heavy duty chain. I purchased to take on a cruise and trips in Mexico. Stylish and holds up very well. I easily fit my credit cards, waterproof camera, mini sunscreen and chapstick plus two passports (one for me, the other the bf) and still had some room left. Extremely pleased with this purchase as well as the quality and care given through customer service. Will definitely be keeping an eye out for more products. If your on the fence about purchasing, go for it! You will not be disappointed. :)
Wendy
Great Travel Bag
Overall, the bag is a great travel bag. It is just large enough to fit my essentials...wallet, phone, small notebook, and a few accessories. The card slots are too small, so I did not use them. It looks good and fits across my body well. If something gets spilled on it, it wipes up very well and leaves no stain or mark. I like the feet on the bottom of the bag so it does not sit directly on the floor or another surface.
The zippers work well and open up enough to easily retrieve items from inside. Plus, the zippers are not harsh nor did they hurt my hand when I reached inside. I also like the clasps at the end of the zippers. They work for safety as well as function.
The only complaint I have is the chain strap. While it looks fantastic, it is heavy and adds too much weight to the bag overall. It's also noisy when I laid the bag down. I would like to see a much lighter strap with a steel cord or something difficult to cut woven into it.
I would recommend this bag, but I would mention the chain issues I had.
Melinda
Love the bags
The bigger one is perfect for my work needs and the smaller one is perfect for my weekend needs. They are beautiful I have had complements and well made.
It would be good if the card slots where a millimetres or 2 bigger to make it easier to put the cards in and out but even with that they are still my favourite bags.
Dar
Loving them!
I'm loving these bags but I do wish there was another option for the chain strap, it is heavier than usual so if the option is available in the future I'm definitely in to purchase them. I also wish the card slots were a centimeter bigger as it is quite difficult to try and take out my cards when the slots are full, and even more so when trying to put a card back in (I am hoping they expand with usage. I'm looking forward to using both bags more often, I haven't been doing so because the chain strap does get heavy with use but they are very practical bags.