When everything you need is right at your hip, you can move a lot more freely. There are many iterations of the wearable phone-wallet case, but Bandolier makes the most polished version we've tested. Besides being extremely convenient for us to use, the cases have the luxe look of a fine leather accessory.
Taylor Swift and Selena Gomez have been spotted with them, so naturally, we couldn't wait to test them out. After months of using it, I can say one thing: it's like having pockets!
I no longer have to play the balancing game of clutching my phone and a coffee in one hand while I struggle to unlock my door. It may not seem like much, but for a person who wears women's clothing, the convenience of a pocket is a small miracle.
Shop all phone cases at Bandolier
| What we love about Bandolier | What could be better |
| Hands-free way to hold cards and small essentials | More expensive than a standard phone case |
| Can replace a small bag | Can feel bulky with the wallet attached |
| Great for travel, errands, and events | Only compatible with iPhones |
| Smart add-ons available | Gold hardware can get scuffed |
The Bandolier Remi set with accessories
The set includes the phone case, removable magnetic wallet that holds up to five cards and cash, and an adjustable leather crossbody strap with a D-ring for attaching accessories.
The Avery is a leather AirPods carrier with a microfiber interior and a clip that attaches to a Bandolier crossbody strap. It’s designed for AirPods Pro and Pro 2.
Bandolier wristlets keep your phone, cards, and small essentials close at hand without needing a full crossbody strap.
How I wear my Bandolier
On the left, I added the wallet and AirPods case for times when I want this to fully replace a purse. It's especially useful when I'm running out the door to walk my dog, since I can grab my phone, keys, cards, and earbuds without thinking about a bag. I also use it this way for grocery runs because my phone is easy to access for my list, and I'm not juggling a purse on top of reusable totes.
On the right is how I carry my phone when I'm actually using a purse. The wristlet keeps my phone secure and easy to grab, so I'm not digging around in my bag every time I need it. It's also handy for weddings, dinners, and other events where I might set my purse down but still want my phone close for taking photos.
Review of the Remi case
The Remi case is one of those accessories that actually makes everyday life easier. It's convenient when I'm running errands, walking the dog, traveling, or anytime I want my phone within reach without digging through a bag. The leather feels high-quality, the hardware looks polished, and Bandolier makes it in so many colors and finishes that it feels more like a style choice than just a practical phone case.
It's also been protective in my experience. I once dropped my phone on concrete, and my iPhone itself didn't have a scratch, which made me feel much more confident using it as my everyday case. That said, the gold border did get a noticeable scuff from the fall, which was disappointing given how expensive the case is — especially if you're hoping it will stay looking pristine over time.
My thoughts on the add-ons
The AirPods pouch feels pretty necessary for me because I use my AirPods constantly, and it keeps them from disappearing into the bottom of a bag. My one complaint is that the fold-over flap makes it a little awkward to actually open the AirPods case, so it's not quite as seamless as carrying them loose.
Still, I'd rather deal with the extra step than misplace my AirPods, and I like that the pouch clips onto the Bandolier case, keys, or an everyday bag.
The wristlet is probably my favorite add-on because it makes the case work in more situations. When I'm carrying a purse, I can keep the phone itself on my wrist instead of constantly digging for it, and it's perfect for events when I want my phone close but don't want to hold onto my whole bag.
Sally's thoughts on her older Bandolier model
Our Executive Editor, Sally Kaplan, has been a fan of Bandolier for many years. In fact, she still uses her older, discontinued case, and it's gotten her through travel, day trips, and more. Here are her thoughts:
I use my Bandolier phone case and carrying strap literally every day. I've always used phone cases with wallets attached, so I was familiar with the convenience, but once I added the strap, it was game over,
After more than two years of daily use, my Bandolier case is still in excellent shape. I gave one to my mom as well last year, and she uses it every day. She's notorious for losing her phone, but she hasn't misplaced it or left it anywhere a single time since! We both get compliments on it all the time, and I'm quick to recommend them to friends and family. I'm sure there are cheaper dupes on Amazon, but I think the leather quality is a big part of why these hold up so well.
I have a couple of these cases and straps, including the one above with a Gucci-esque design, and this pebbled leather one that has a slightly longer strap. I literally never carry a purse with me anymore unless I'm going to a formal event, and I never lose my phone anymore.
Cons to consider
You should be aware that Bandolier phone cases are slightly bulkier than normal phone cases, which might be a downside for people who want to keep the case on their phone all the time. The place where the straps connect makes the bottom part a little thicker than you might be used to.
If you want to keep a normal, thinner case on your phone and then swap to the Bandolier case when needed, it can be a little tricky to pop in and out at first. The case is super sturdy, so it cradles your phone tightly, but after using it for a while and popping it in and out, it loosened enough that it was no longer tricky to put it on my phone.
Our deputy executive editor, Lauren Savoie, also noted that the straps don't feel long enough for tall and plus-size bodies: "As someone who is 5'11" and plus size, I felt like the strap was awkwardly resting at my waist instead of near the hip, even on the longest setting." Bandolier makes longer straps, but you have to buy them separately.
Lastly, Bandolier cases are primarily made for iPhones. For Samsung users we recommend instead its crossbody bag collection, which have slip pockets compatible with most models.
The bottom line
If you or someone you're gift shopping is in need of more pocket space, then Bandolier is worth the try. It's super convenient for carrying your phone and wallet while being hands-free. There are also lots of helpful add-ons for making it a complete companion.
FAQs
Are Bandolier phone cases worth it?
If you're always digging through your bag for your phone, I think so. The strap makes it much easier to keep your phone handy while running errands, traveling, walking the dog, or going to an event — and the leather and hardware make it feel more polished than a purely utilitarian crossbody case.
How protective are Bandolier cases?
The Remi case has held up well in my testing. I once dropped my phone directly onto concrete, and the iPhone itself didn't get a scratch. The gold border on the case did scuff, though, so it's protective but not immune to showing wear.
Which Bandolier add-ons are actually useful?
The wristlet is my favorite because it gives you another easy way to carry your phone when you don't want it across your body. I also like the AirPods pouch for preventing my earbuds from disappearing into the bottom of my bag, though the fold-over flap makes it a little clunky to open the AirPods case quickly.
Are Bandolier cases bulky?
A little. They're thicker than a typical phone case, especially at the bottom where the strap connects. They also fit very snugly at first, so swapping them on and off can take some effort — but the case did become easier to remove after I'd used it for a while.
Will the strap work for tall or plus-size people?
Not necessarily. Our deputy executive editor, who is 5-foot-11 and identifies as plus-size, found that the standard strap sat at her waist rather than closer to her hip, even on its longest setting. Bandolier does sell longer straps separately, but it's worth factoring that extra cost in before you buy.
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Disclosure: Written and researched by the Insider Reviews team. We highlight products and services you might find interesting. If you buy them, we may get a small share of the revenue from the sale from our partners. We may receive products free of charge from manufacturers to test. This does not drive our decision as to whether or not a product is featured or recommended. We operate independently from our advertising team. We welcome your feedback. Email us at reviews@bjinnox.com.
