Concealed Carry on the Move: Bags That Meet Legal and Practical Requirements

Key Takeaways

• Concealed carry bags are one of the many options for keeping a hidden weapon with you in a way that’s accessible.
• If you’re looking for concealed carry bags, explore options that follow safety guidelines, including a dedicated firearm compartment, internal holster, trigger guard protection, and a low-profile exterior.
• Bags that meet the practical requirements for concealed safety prioritize the functionality of carrying off-body, including safety, accessibility, and lockability.

Concealed carry bags, also known as off-body bags, are a unique option for carrying your weapon. They offer women, especially those who wear fitted clothing, a simple solution for keeping their weapon on hand without shouting it out to the world. Many on-body concealed carry options, like inside the waistband holsters or belly bands, won’t stay hidden if you wear crop tops or tight shirts. Waistband holsters require sturdy pants and belts, which may not always match your outfit.

If you’re wondering which types of concealed carry bags meet legal and practical requirements in the United States, check out this overview. But please remember to check the concealed carry laws in your own state to ensure you’re following the specific guidelines and duties that apply to your situation.

Dedicated Compartment

If you’re a first-time concealed carry permit holder, a concealed carry handbag may sound like a good choice. It’s not attached to your body and doesn’t cause odd outlines in your clothing, giving away what you’re carrying.

A designer concealed carry handbag is the ideal option here because it offers a thoughtful, practical, and functional way for you to carry your firearm in a dedicated compartment. Your firearm will never be mixed up with other essentials and will remain readily accessible.

Internal Holster

An internal holster is one that holds your firearm in its designated compartment and prevents accidental discharge of your weapon with some sort of trigger guard protection. Many concealed carry bags also offer a detachable internal holster that allows you to switch out your firearm for another option.

Concealed carry bags that offer detachable holster options will have loops, hooks, or screws that hold the holster securely in place.

Trigger Guard Protection

Holsters naturally have trigger guard protections to prevent accidental discharge. It’s never recommended to carry a gun in your bag without a holster, as accidental jostling could cause the weapon to fire. A holster, in combination with a dedicated compartment for your firearm, ensures the highest level of safety for yourself and others.

Quick Access

One way to ensure accessibility is with a dedicated compartment, but there’s another element to reaching for your firearm: opening your bag. The best concealed carry bags will have some sort of pull tab that pulls the front of the bag completely open using just one hand. Some are magnetic, while others offer premium zippered options.

The most important thing here is that you can open your bag with one hand while reaching for your firearm with the other. If you’re fumbling with latches, buckles, or flaps, you defeat the purpose of a concealed carry firearm.

Subtle Exterior

You want your concealed carry bag to blend in with your everyday fashions, so a low-profile piece without any obvious signs of firearms is essential. Look for concealed carry bags that are designed as purses or crossbody styles to ensure your firearm blends in at all times. Typically, leather styles offer the sturdy functionality you want while ensuring you still look fashionable and stylish.

Legal Considerations

Each state and city may have its own concealed carry regulations and specifications. Please research the laws in your area and for your specific situation to ensure your safety and compliance.

Have a Permit

Nearly every state requires that you have a specialty permit to carry a concealed firearm. Even if you’re carrying in a bag rather than on your waistband, in a pocket, or on your back, you still need a concealed carry permit. In some states, you also need to pass a test, receive a firearms certification, or renew your permit periodically.

State & Local Laws

How, when, and where you can carry your weapon varies from state to state. There are federally prohibited locations, like courthouses, airports, and post offices, as well as locally restricted locations, including state buildings, educational institutions, and places where alcohol is consumed. Make sure you’re up to date on gun-free zones to maintain compliance.

Choosing the Right Bag

Currently, there is no governmental regulatory body that dictates specific features for concealed carry bags. However, you should prioritize state laws and your own safety when choosing an appropriate bag for your needs. Explore options that consider trigger protection, bag retention, and discretion when shopping.