I Put Lululemon’s Everywhere Crossbody Bag To The Ultimate Travel Test—Here’s How It Held Up

Just a few days ago, I was suspended above the rainforest, looking out at a sweeping ocean view. Toucans and jungle canopy surrounded me, replacing my New York City brownstone with stays at Rancho Pacifico and Vista Celestial — two luxury hideaways along Costa Rica’s southern Pacific coast.  Though part of my family history is rooted in the lush rainforest, the “pura vida” lifestyle — a local greeting and expression that reflects the relaxed, joyful spirit of Costa Rican culture — felt unfamiliar to a New York transplant like me. Living in an environment that encourages the relentless pursuit of more has, unfortunately, left a mark on me. This is evident in the bags I usually carry. Often oversized and spacious, there’s room to store a book, water bottle, laptop, and even a change of shoes. While that’s not inherently bad, I wanted to lean into the unwound energy of the culture instead, simplifying everything — including my travel essentials. So, I decided to reach for the same unfussy bag all trip long: the Lululemon Everywhere Crossbody Bag.   Where I Took It From the moment I landed at the Juan Santamaría International Airport, the compact bag became less an accessory and more a constant companion. The adjustable strap made it easy to sling across my chest, and the bag stayed close to my body. Once at the secluded jungle retreat, it slipped effortlessly into the rhythm of the properties, including fancy chef-led dinners and coffee-scrub spa appointments, where I could easily tuck it beside my chair without it getting in the way. I was also able to stay fully present while visiting Alajuela, the city where my great-grandmother grew up. Because I could wear it across my body, I didn’t have to think much about where I’d left my stuff. And the eight compartments kept me from digging around for my phone or wallet. How It Held Up The Costa Rican ecosystem doesn’t ease you in — it immerses you fast. Still, the unexpected weather, wildlife, and topography didn’t pose a threat to the bag.  During a private 50-acre rainforest reserve tour, the accessory moved with ease. The nylon picked up surprisingly little dirt, even after I wore it through sticky humidity and muddy rainforest terrain. I wasn’t particularly precious with it outside the jungle, either. I brought it to Playa Hermosa, tossed it beside the resort’s infinity pool, and wore it on a mangrove boat tour. Even after getting caught in an unexpected rainstorm, the bag dried quickly. It’s also common to come into contact with monkeys, birds, iguanas, and critters during your stay, whether enjoying a yoga session on your private deck or soaking in a bath outside your treehouse suite. After all, you’re in their home, tucked into the rainforest. What I Stashed Away What surprised me most, though, was how perfectly the bag held my belongings. Whether I was enjoying the expansive view over breakfast, taking a dip in my personal plunge pool, or grabbing a fresh cup of coffee, it held only the essentials. My phone, SPF, lip balm, sunglasses, and wallet all neatly nestled together, cutting out frivolous items. In a way, carrying less started to feel in sync with the environment itself: stripped back and intentional.  By the end of my trip, my idea of “carrying” shifted, reminding me to hold on to what’s important and leave the extra weight behind. After all, the bag is about simplicity: disappearing into the flow of the day while leaving space for what really matters — which, in a place like Costa Rica, seems entirely the point. Like what you see? How about some more R29 goodness, right here?The 20 Best Travel Pants For Summer VacationsThe Chic Essentials I Pack for Every Summer Trip15 Amazon Travel Dresses That Pack Like A Dream