The Journal

Tote bags offer the most capacity for daily essentials, crossbody bags keep your hands free for active days, and hobo bags bring an effortless, boho silhouette to any outfit. The right choice comes down to how you move through your day—whether you're commuting to work, running errands, or heading out for a night with friends. Here's how each style stacks up, and how to pick the one that actually fits your routine.

Tote Bag — Best for Daily Commute and Work

Tote bags are built for capacity. With a wide, open top and a structured silhouette, they're the easiest style to pack for a full day—laptops, folders, a water bottle, and everything else that comes with office life all fit without a fight. The boxier shape also means totes tend to hold their form better than slouchier styles, which gives them a polished, put-together look that works well in professional settings.

If your days involve commuting, running between meetings, or carrying work essentials alongside personal items, a tote is usually the most practical starting point. Browse the full tote bag collection to find a style that matches your everyday routine.

Crossbody Bag — Best for Hands-Free Days

Crossbody bags solve one problem better than any other style: keeping your hands free. Worn across the body with an adjustable strap, they stay secure while you're navigating a busy day—whether that's traveling through an airport, chasing after kids, or exploring a new city on foot. Most crossbody bags trade some capacity for that convenience, holding your phone, wallet, and a few essentials without the bulk.

This makes crossbody bags a go-to for travel, outdoor activities, and any day where you need mobility more than storage space. Check out the crossbody bag collection for options that range from compact everyday styles to slightly roomier versions for longer days out.

Hobo Bag — Best for Effortless, Boho Looks

Hobo bags are defined by their soft, crescent-shaped silhouette and relaxed, slouchy construction. Unlike the structured tote or the practical crossbody, a hobo bag is all about ease—it drapes naturally over the shoulder and pairs effortlessly with casual, bohemian-inspired outfits. It's less about maximizing organization and more about achieving a laid-back look without sacrificing everyday function.

If your personal style leans casual or boho, or you simply want a bag that feels as easy to wear as it looks, a hobo bag is worth the switch. Explore the hobo bag collection to see the range of textures and details available.

Tote vs Crossbody vs Hobo: Quick Comparison

In short: totes maximize capacity, crossbody bags maximize freedom of movement, and hobo bags maximize casual style.

Which One Fits Your Lifestyle?

If you commute or work from an office most days: a tote bag gives you the space and structure to carry everything without switching bags.

If you travel often or need your hands free: a crossbody bag keeps essentials secure and accessible without slowing you down.

If your days are mostly casual—errands, coffee runs, weekend plans: a hobo bag offers comfort and style without overthinking it.

If you split your time between work and weekends: many people keep one structured option (tote or crossbody) and one relaxed option (hobo) on rotation.

How to Style Each Bag Style

Styling a Tote Bag

Totes bring structure to a Western look, making them a great pick for anyone who wants the aesthetic without losing polish.

Concert Night Look: A fitted graphic tee, high-waisted jeans, and western boots—the tote keeps enough structure to carry essentials for a full night out without feeling bulky.

Ranch-to-Town Look: A denim shirt dress, a leather belt with a statement buckle, and low-heeled boots—the tote's structure balances the relaxed denim silhouette.

Styling a Crossbody Bag

Crossbody bags are a natural match for classic Western style, built for a day that doesn't slow down.

Everyday Western Look: Straight-leg jeans, a fitted tee, and cowboy boots—an easy, all-day outfit that pairs perfectly with a crossbody's hands-free convenience.

Denim-on-Denim Look: A denim jacket over a plaid shirt, paired with boots and the crossbody worn across the body—a go-to for errands, travel days, or exploring somewhere new.

For more outfit inspiration built around this style, take a look at our cowgirl outfit ideas guide.

Styling a Hobo Bag

Hobo bags lean into the softer, bohemian side of Western style, especially with fringe details.

Boho Western Look: A flowy prairie dress, a suede vest, and ankle boots—the hobo's slouchy shape completes the relaxed, boho-Western silhouette.

Fringe-on-Fringe Look: A fringe hobo bag with a fringe jacket or skirt—a full embrace of the Western-boho pairing for a cohesive, statement-making outfit.

Browse the fringe purse collection for pieces that complement this relaxed style.

FAQ

Which bag style is most versatile for everyday use? 

Crossbody bags tend to be the most versatile, since they work across commuting, travel, and casual outings without needing to be swapped out.

Which bag style is best for travel?

Crossbody bags are generally the best travel companion—they keep your hands free and your essentials secure while you're on the move.

Are there material or price differences between the three styles? 

Materials and pricing vary more by collection than by bag style. Both the Montana West and Wrangler lines offer totes, crossbody bags, and hobo bags across a range of materials, including leather and cowhide options.

Can I find both Wrangler and Montana West versions of each bag style? 

Yes. All three bag styles are available across both the Montana West and Wrangler lines, so you can shop by silhouette first and then choose the collection that fits your style.

What if the bag style doesn't work for me?

If a bag doesn't end up fitting your lifestyle the way you expected, we offer 90-Day Easy Returns, so you can try it out with confidence.