As the weather changes, I always tend to go in a more bohemian direction with my accessories. This leather crossbody bag I found in Mexico in particular was in need of an update. With a little creativity and about an hour of time, it’s now my favorite bitty boho bag that will be ready to take on the rest of the year!
The term “boho” we use here is derived from the word “bohemian,” which refers to a ‘free-spirited, unconventional lifestyle’.
Family travel creates memories.. but the best souvenirs aren’t always the ones wrapped in plastic or stamped with a logo. Sometimes, the most meaningful keepsakes are the ones you turn into something yourself.
This easy boho bag tutorial shows you how to decorate a bag you find while traveling with your family, using small, meaningful items collected along the way. Think tassels from local markets, woven trims from street vendors, beads traded by your kids, or fabric scraps picked up abroad — all turned into a one-of-a-kind boho travel bag.
Not only is this a creative DIY, it’s also a budget-friendly, memory-rich alternative to buying souvenirs. making it a perfect companion to family travel hacking and intentional travel.
What is a boho bag?
The best boho bags (or hippie bag) are typically characterized by their relaxed and decorative design, often incorporating vibrant colors, unique patterns, and different embellishments! They are often made from natural fibers such as cotton, linen, leather or jute, and usually have embellishments like embroidery, fringe, tassels, beads, or shells. You can find folk style bags in this style in many places around the world like the Dominican Republic, the Cayman Islands, New Zealand, Costa Rica and el Salvador.
Boho purses and bags can come in various forms, including tote bags, fanny pack style, crossbody bag, shoulder bag, crochet bags, or slouchy hobo bags. The straps or handles of boho bags are often long and comfortable, allowing for easy wear and a casual, carefree look. They are popular for their laid-back and artistic vibe, making them a versatile choice for free spirits. They are best used for casual outings, as a festival bag, beach trips, cosmetic bags, or everyday use. Sounds like the perfect accessory right? Who needs a Louis Vuitton when you can have all that?
This tutorial is really so simple, I almost feel silly creating a tutorial for it! Before I started this project, I had already pre-made some tassels via my tutorial from last month HERE. Each tassel was so simple to make from embroidery thread. You could realistically complete them in less time than it takes to drive to a craft store and buy them. Plus, this is a no-sew tutorial, so you don’t even need a sewing machine!
Supplies:
My supply lists are shoppable for your convenience! Get everything you need to complete this project by clicking on any link below without adding extra errands to your day.
- A plain purse
- Dressmaker Shears
- Embellishments (or an old belt) you like: things you found on travels
- Coordinating Tassels (tutorial found HERE)
- E6000 Glue
How to Make a Boho Travel Bag (No-Sew Tutorial)
This project takes about 30–60 minutes, making it perfect for hotel downtime, vacation rentals, or post-trip crafting at home.
Step 1: Arrange Your Travel Finds
Lay your bag flat and start placing your collected embellishments on the front.
Let kids help with spacing or pattern ideas — there’s no wrong way to do this.
Think:
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One main horizontal trim
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Tassels hanging evenly
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Asymmetrical placement for a relaxed boho look
Step 2: Cut and Prep Your Trim
Once you’re happy with the layout:
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Cut your main trim to fit across the bag
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Lightly seal fabric edges (if appropriate)
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Test placement before gluing
💡 Travel Hack Tip: Lighters or matches (where allowed) can gently seal fabric edges without sewing.
Step 3: Glue the Main Embellishment
Apply a thin, even layer of strong adhesive to the back of your trim.
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Press it firmly onto the bag
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Secure with binder clips
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Allow to set according to glue instructions
If your bag is very smooth, lightly rough the surface first so the glue adheres better.
Step 4: Add Your Travel Tassels and Details
Once the base trim is secure:
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Slide tassels or beads into place
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Press gently into glue
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Double-check spacing and alignment
This is where the personality of your trip really comes through.
Step 5: Let It Dry Completely
Allow several hours (or overnight) for everything to cure fully before using the bag.
This ensures your travel memories stay attached for years to come.
Why This DIY Is Perfect for Family Travel Hacking
If you’re already optimizing flights, hotels, and experiences through family travel hacking, this DIY aligns beautifully with that mindset.
How This Supports Budget Travel
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Replaces expensive souvenirs
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Encourages mindful spending
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Supports local makers instead of mass-produced goods
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Turns downtime into meaningful family activity
This is the same philosophy behind earning nearly free flights: intentional choices that create richer experiences.
A Bag That Tells a Story
The first place I brought my finished bag was on a family trip to Mexico, and it couldn’t have been more perfect.
It was secure, comfortable, practical — and people constantly asked where I bought it.
The answer?
“I made it… from things we found while traveling.”
That’s the magic.
Why Handmade Travel Souvenirs Matter
When you make something yourself — especially with your family — it carries emotional weight no store-bought item ever can.
This boho travel bag becomes:
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A reminder of places you’ve been
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A symbol of creativity over consumption
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A wearable timeline of family adventures
And best of all, it pairs beautifully with the values behind smart, intentional travel.
Final Thought
You don’t need a designer label to carry something meaningful.
With a little creativity, a simple bag found on the road can become a one-of-a-kind boho travel accessory — stitched together with memories, stories, and the places your family has explored.
It’s a total “Ta da!” You now have new festive, bohemian bags that’s ready for whatever comes your way!
One of the very first places I brought this bag was on a vacation. It was absolutely perfect! I loved how the zipper closed all the way across the top to keep my things secure, the strap was long enough to wear across my chest so it never fell off, and I legitimately received so many compliments on it!
For me, that’s the best part about making things yourself. I absolutely love creating something that I’m proud of, it totally unique, and makes me feel just a little bit better when I’m wearing it. Since you are reading this, I can tell travel is just as important to you as it is to me. I have some good news for you then: I’ve started a women oriented travel hacking website! Read about how to take your ENTIRE family on a trip using travel credit card points HERE, or find a super useful budget travel planner HERE. Happy exploring, and happy crafting!
Other Projects To Try:
Pictures For Pinterest:
