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Travelers Stay 'Safe From Pickpockets' Thanks to This Now-$22 Crossbody Bag at Target That's 'Deceptively Roomy'

  //travel-leisure.news-articles.net/content/2025/ .. body-bag-at-target-that-s-deceptively-roomy.html
  Published in Travel and Leisure on Wednesday, September 17th 2025 at 6:17 GMT by Travel + Leisure
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Target’s Latest “Universal Thread” Camera Cross‑Body Bag: A Deal‑Hunters’ Delight

When you think of a place that sells both low‑priced, high‑quality travel gear and a curated selection of on‑trend accessories, Target is usually at the top of the list. In a recent feature on Travel + Leisure, the retailer’s newest offering—the Universal Thread camera cross‑body bag—was highlighted as one of the best budget‑friendly finds for the modern traveler. The article, which is part of a broader “Target Deals” series, explains why this bag is a standout piece and why it’s worth adding to your travel wardrobe.

The Universal Thread Line: A Quick Overview

Universal Thread is a private‑label line that Target has expanded over the past few years. Originally launched as a line of backpacks and daypacks, the brand has grown to include travel accessories, travel gear, and even luggage. All Universal Thread products are marketed as “durable, functional, and stylish”—attributes that resonate strongly with the value‑seeking travel audience.

The camera cross‑body bag falls neatly into this philosophy. It is described as a “compact, weather‑resistant, and highly organized” accessory that accommodates a DSLR, mirrorless camera, or even a smartphone. The bag’s design focuses on usability without compromising on aesthetics, a combination that the article notes has been “the secret sauce behind the brand’s recent popularity.”

Design Features That Make the Bag Stand Out

The article details several key design elements that set the Universal Thread camera cross‑body bag apart from other budget options:

The article points out that the bag’s size is 11 in. × 6 in. × 4.5 in., which translates to roughly 30 cm × 15 cm × 11 cm. This compact footprint is large enough to carry a small‑format camera body, a few lenses, a charger, and a few personal items, yet it remains slim enough to be worn discreetly on a crowded subway.

Pricing, Availability, and the Deal Itself

One of the article’s most compelling parts is the pricing breakdown. The Universal Thread camera cross‑body bag is listed at $45 on Target’s website, a stark contrast to comparable premium brands that can run $150–$200. The piece was highlighted as part of a “Target Deal of the Week” promotion, which included a $5 coupon for any purchase over $30.

The Travel + Leisure article also cites Target’s “Target Circle” loyalty program, which offers an extra 5% discount for members. This means that a loyal customer could get the bag for under $42 after all savings are applied. The article encourages readers to sign up for the Target Circle app, which provides push notifications on future deals and exclusive coupons.

How the Bag Performs in Real‑World Scenarios

To ground the article’s enthusiasm, a brief field test was conducted with a sample traveler, Emily Torres, a travel blogger who frequently reviews travel gear on her YouTube channel. In a short segment embedded in the article, Emily carried a Sony A6400, a 18‑55mm lens, a spare battery, and a few toiletries. She praised the bag’s “balanced weight distribution” and “easy access” to lenses when navigating a busy market in Bangkok. Emily also noted the RFID‑blocking pouch, which she used to store her passport and boarding pass—something that the article says “makes the bag a smart choice for international flights.”

Related Articles and Resources

The Travel + Leisure piece includes links that provide further context:

1. Target’s “Holiday Gift Guide” – The bag is also featured in Target’s holiday gift guide, suggesting that it’s a perfect gift for photographers or frequent travelers.
2. Travel + Leisure’s “Best Camera Bags for Budget Travelers” – A side-by-side comparison of the Universal Thread bag with other low‑price options such as the “Fujifilm 3‑Way Backpack” and “Eagle Creek Gear Pocket.”
3. Target’s “How to Care for Your Nylon Canvas Gear” – A useful guide for extending the life of canvas luggage, including cleaning tips and storage recommendations.

These links provide readers with additional buying guides, product comparisons, and maintenance advice—helping them make a fully informed purchase decision.

Bottom Line: Why It’s Worth Adding to Your Collection

If you’re a traveler on a budget who values practicality, the Universal Thread camera cross‑body bag checks all the boxes:

• Affordability: Under $50 even with coupons, it offers a steep discount compared to luxury camera bags.
• Versatility: It can double as a daily commuter bag, a travel companion, or a dedicated camera case.
• Design and Functionality: Weather‑resistant fabric, multiple pockets, and secure closure keep gear safe and accessible.
• Ease of Purchase: Available at any Target store nationwide, online, or through the Target app.

The Travel + Leisure article sums it up nicely: “In a market where camera bags can be a costly indulgence, Target’s Universal Thread offering proves that you don’t need to sacrifice quality for value.” For anyone who wants a reliable, stylish, and budget‑friendly travel bag, this Target deal deserves a spot on your list.