A safe handbag should be large enough to carry your important documents and cash, but small enough that it's not cumbersome. For example, while a small wristlet may be comfortable to carry, it is unlikely to be large enough to carry your credit cards, identification cards, cash and other necessities. And while an extra large purse might hold everything, it will be difficult to handle if you're trying to wash your hands or eat a sandwich during your trip.
A safe handbag should have handles that are easy to carry. In fact, the best type of strap for a handbag is a shoulder strap. A shoulder strap allows you to keep your hands free to do any number of activities but still allows you to keep your bag close to your body so you can monitor its presence. With a shoulder strap, ensure that you always walk with the bag on the side of your body that is away from the curb, so that it doesn't fall prey to purse snatchers.
Your travel handbag should have several pockets for storing your credit cards and identification cards. For example, your passport should be in a deep interior pocket that is difficult to access; that way, it cannot be easily snatched by an expert pickpocket. Don't keep your cash and credit cards together, and ensure that everything is tucked and zipped away completely after use. The pockets should all have individual clasps or zippers to ensure that the items cannot fall out.
What you pack in your travel handbag is almost as important as the type of bag you have. Don't pack materials that are so large that they are likely to dislodge other items when you take them out. For example, if you take a large scarf out of your handbag, the scarf is likely to drag out other items with it, including wallets and keychains. Your travel handbag should not be bursting but filled to a reasonable amount.
