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• > Messengers

The Best Messenger Bags for Tech, Travel, and EDC (2023)

• Buyers Guide

Backpacks are considered the carry comfort kings. Duffels are the gear haulers. But when it comes to access and agility, the best messenger bags and shoulder bags step up for their time to shine. For many users, crossbody bags are go-to choices for quick access to gear on the move. They also tend to draw people who want to carry smaller loads or shed unnecessary carry bulk. And they also tend to get the nod of approval in work settings, where in many cases they bring a more formal and professional feel to your work setup than a backpack.

Messengers vs shoulder bags

So you might have heard the terms ‘messenger’ and ‘shoulder bag’ used interchangeably. But they aren’t actually the same thing. Messengers tend to be associated with more active use (think bags used by bicycle messengers), while shoulder bags play well in sedate settings. Features such as stabilizer straps are more common in messengers (again, to assist in load stability during active use). And in general messengers will wrap round the body more (a rigid design isn’t great if you’re pounding the pedals during a bike ride or trying to move nimbly in outdoor environments). That doesn’t mean you can’t use messengers in less strenuous settings or find shoulder bags that will tackle a little adventure now and then.

So with all of that in mind, what is a good brand of messenger bag? We know it can be time-consuming to search through countless bag options. So we’re shouldering the load by rounding up some of the best messenger bags and shoulder bags to suit different needs and settings. But, hey, it’s worth noting most of the below bags cross categories. They’re not only suited to certain needs, but they’re versatile too. Win!

Best shoulder bag for travel

Pacsafe metrosafe ls200 (us$149.95).

The Metrosafe LS200 packs a host of anti-theft features into its compact design that suits carry-on use or a day trip equally well. An integrated Lockabout security clip, eXomesh slashguards, Carrysafe slashguard strap, zipper hooks, and RFIDsafe blocking pocket are just some of the features that will keep sticky fingers away from your belongings. The bag’s main compartment has a padded 10″ tablet sleeve and there are plenty of pockets in the front compartment to organize small essentials.

Best heritage-style shoulder bag

Wp standard meridian messenger bag (us$348).

If you have a soft spot for leather carry, it’s hard not to be drawn towards WP Standard’s gear. They do a darn fine job of combining old-school charm and modern-day functionality. Just like with their Meridian Messenger Bag, which gives a nod to antique leather work bags but provides a leaner, modern design. It’s crafted with full-grain vegetable-tanned leather that will only get better with use. Inside you’ll find a padded laptop compartment, with further exterior and interior pockets to store smaller items.

Best heritage-style messenger

Trakke bairn messenger bag (~us$252).

Trakke’s Bairn Messenger is a handsome fellow that’s equally up for a day in the office or a stroll outdoors. Handmade in Scotland, it’s designed to keep the weather at bay and also includes a dry-finish waxed canvas lining for added peace of mind. And with a choice of pockets on hand including an interior 13″ laptop sleeve, you’ll have no problem keeping your bits and pieces tidy on the move.

Bedouin Foundry Barbarossa (~US$340)

Bedouin Foundry make some of the most beautiful messengers around, with sophisticated silhouettes and premium materials that exude quality from day one to years down the line. But it’s not just pretty looks here. The Barbarossa is meticulously handmade in Lincolnshire, England, and built for years of demanding use. It features a suave combination of 12 oz. waxed canvas from Halley Stevensons and Italian vegetable-tanned leather. A sleek and uber-strong AustriAlpin Cobra buckle does the honors of securing the flap, beneath which you’ll find two sleeve pockets. An interior laptop sleeve holds your tech on the go, while the bag’s fully padded design also makes it an attractive choice for camera carry.

Best shoulder bag for tech

Cargo works 15′ macbook pro retina edc kit (us$45.50).

If you’re after a rugged build, organization options galore, and all in a design that remains slim and adaptable, look to the Cargo Works 15″ MacBook Pro Retina EDC Kit. The bag offers two compartments to carry your tech and everyday or work items. The front compartment features elastic webbing and pockets for smaller accessories and a tablet, while the padded main compartment keeps up to a 15″ laptop safe within its soft microfiber lining. You can carry the bag by hand, with the removable shoulder strap, or secure it to the handle of rolling luggage when travel calls.

Best tech messenger bags

Chrome industries buran iii (us$170).

The Chrome Buran III nods to heritage styling but is built for modern-day tech carry. A host of pockets provide quick yet secure access to tech and EDC items, including a dedicated padded 17″ laptop sleeve. This tech messenger bag also features a reversible shoulder strap for right or left carry, a weatherproof liner, and Chrome’s iconic seatbelt buckle with an integrated bottle opener.

Timbuk2 Especial Stash (US$179)

Timbuk has your tech carry well covered with their Especial Stash, a weatherproof messenger designed to keep tech secure and safe from the elements during your daily commute. Complementing the weather-resistant exterior is an interior waterproof 15″ laptop compartment. Magnetic buckles provide ease of access, while the ambixdextrous strap offers comfy carry. Rounding things off is reflective detailing to help increase your visibility in low-light conditions.

Mission Workshop Khyte (US$390)

If you’re looking for rugged handmade construction, weatherproof protection for tech, and versatile understated styling that can transition from work to play, the Khyte might be just right for your needs. This tech messenger bag features two-layer weatherproof construction and water-resistant zippers to protect gear from the elements. Multiple pockets and organization options including an externally accessible 15″ laptop sleeve keep your daily or travel items well organized. And with a variety of colorways on offer, you can choose one that speaks to your personal style too.

Best budget messenger bag for laptops

Incase compass messenger (us$89.99).

If you’re after sleek simplicity that blends into work or play environments, Incase’s Compass Messenger will steer you right. The understated design works equally well in an office or your local cafe. Straightforward organization complements the low-key design, with a padded 15″ laptop sleeve and a choice of internal and external pockets to store small items throughout the day.

Best shoulder bag for laptops

Bellroy via work bag (us$129).

With its understated, water-resistant design and variety of useful pockets for organization, Bellroy’s Via Work Bag is a fine pick for the office, travel use, or catching up on a couple of emails in your local cafe. Featuring a padded 16″ laptop pocket, the bag also includes a luggage pass-through sleeve and a padded shoulder strap that can be detached when not required.

Best tactical messengers

Orbitgear r222 mk24 “raptor” (us$128).

ORBITGear’s R222 MK24 “Raptor” pairs expert craftsmanship, versatile design, hard-wearing construction, and awesome value for money in a messenger that can adapt to a range of daily and travel carry needs. Large enough for 14″ tech devices, it also provides attachment points for personalized setups as well as a choice of interior and exterior pockets for smaller items. Handmade with a 580D elecor shell, this versatile EDC messenger bag includes an ambidextrous strap system for easy portability.

Greenroom136 Metrorunner PRIME Tactical (around $147)

If you’re looking for tough materials, excellent handmade construction, and practical design for a variety of day-to-day needs, all with great value for money, this messenger should be on your shortlist. It features VX42 laminated X-Pac, premium AustriAlpin Cobra and Fidlock hardware, and a variety of pockets and compartments to organize your gear. Its versatile design holds commuting essentials and travel gear equally well, while its burly build is backed by a lifetime warranty for peace of mind.

Arc’teryx LEAF Courier 15 (US$279)

Designed for Jason Bourne-type operatives, the Arc’teryx LEAF Courier 15 is built to perform, adapt and blend in. A serious bit of kit, honed for the hardest gear users on the planet, it’s made with a ‘cannot fail’ attention to build, access, and adaptability – working in the field, as well as for everyday civilians wanting to crush their daily missions (while carrying a laptop and a few snacks too).

Best tactical shoulder bags

Mystery ranch indie shoulder bag (us$59).

Built tough and flexible to adapt to changing loads and environments, the Indie Shoulder Bag comes in a choice of durable yet lightweight materials to embrace demanding use with ease. The low-key design stealths easily into a variety of settings and accommodates a range of setups, from EDC to travel essentials. Plus it won’t break the bank either, which is always a bonus.

Mystery Ranch 3 Way Briefcase Expandable (US$199)

If you love carry that offers a lot of flexibility, the Mystery Ranch 3 Way Briefcase Expandable is definitely one to scope out. It adapts to a range of carry needs thanks to its stowable backpack straps, removable shoulder strap and top grab handles. There’s also plenty of pockets on hand to neatly store items, including a padded 15″ laptop compartment. And if you need more space? The design expands to provide an additional 5L of storage for larger loads.

Best shoulder bags for photography

Chrome industries niko hold camera bag (~us$100).

Keen on versatile camera carry with the freedom to convert an existing bag into a camera bag? The Niko Hold could be just right for your needs. The bag can be used as a standalone camera bag, with carry handles and a detachable shoulder strap for convenience. However, you can also fit the Niko Hold inside almost any Chrome bag (or another bag if the dimensions suit) to convert it into a camera bag. The Niko offers a wide opening for easy access and customizable dividers to adapt to different loads.

f-stop Florentin (US$99.99)

With its water-resistant, low-profile design the f-stop Florentin is an appealing option for carrying camera gear under the radar in urban settings. Suitable for a small camera setup, the Florentin includes a removable padded main compartment with three dividers. There’s also storage for up to a 12″ tablet or laptop, as well as a front organizer pocket. You’ve also got portability options on hand here too, with a luggage handle sleeve, top carry handles and a shoulder strap.

HoldFast Gear Roamographer Camera Bag (US$610)

The Roamographer is a head-turner for sure, merging vintage charm with luxurious construction. The bag is handcrafted with durable and beautiful American Bison leather and features a removable camera insert with multiple pockets to protect and organize your photography gear. A camera can also be secured to the shoulder strap for ready access on the go. The Roamographer comes in a choice of sizes to suit smaller or larger loads too.

Best photography messenger bags

Peak design everyday messenger (from us$229.95).

One of the most innovative camera messengers to hit the scene in recent years, Peak Design’s Everyday Messenger does double duty as an EDC messenger bag and camera bag. Able to carry a 14″ tech device, the bag thoughtfully combines a variety of features into a stylish and functional whole. From expandability and one-handed access to highly customizable organization with FlexFold dividers and multiple pockets, the folks at Peak Design have pretty much thought of everything. All brought together in a weatherproof, durable and stylish design that moves easily between diverse carry environments and requirements.

ONA Brooklyn Camera Messenger Bag (~US$550)

The ONA Brooklyn takes inspiration from 1940s school bags but delivers a photography twist. The tuck lock closures provide easy access to the soft interior, where three dividers help organize your gear. Externally you’ll find a front pocket as well as a back pocket suitable for slim items such as a tablet. Handmade with full-grain leather, it’s a stylish pick for both formal and informal photography shoots.

Best messenger bags for professionals

Lexdray symmetry mumbai messenger bag (us$189).

Lexdray’s Symmetry Mumbai Messenger Bag offers flexibility and a little personality, while still retaining a functional, work-ready design and aesthetic. Multiple compartments and pockets keep your tech, work supplies and EDC easily accessible. But that organization is also adaptable, with a large main compartment that stays slim for smaller loads but accommodates larger loads or bulky items when duty calls. And with its tough, highly weather-resistant build, you don’t need to worry about rainy commutes.

Best shoulder bags for professionals

Bellroy duo work bag (us$279).

Bellroy’s Duo Work Bag packs a lot of functionality into an understated, clean design that suits formal and informal work settings alike. Top carry handles, a removable shoulder strap and a luggage pass-through sleeve provide portability options. The bag has a padded 15″ laptop compartment and a variety of additional pockets organize work tools, EDC and travel items. Plus it’s expandable when you need extra packing space. Rounding things off is a durable, water-resistant build that will protect your gear from the elements while looking stylish every step of the way.

Ally Capellino Jeremy Small Waxed Cotton Satchel (~US$245)

With its lightweight yet durable build and sleek lines, the Jeremey Small Waxed Cotton Satchel cuts a dashing figure in the workplace. Made from waxed cotton fabric with a bridle leather strap and buckle closures, it won’t weigh you down during the commute. A quick-access back pocket stashes small essentials, while the main compartment suits minimalist loads and includes space for a tablet.

Best cycling messengers for professionals

Restrap pack messenger bag (us$69.99).

With its stealthy looks, weatherproof and durable build and versatile design, the Restrap Pack Messenger Bag wheels smoothly from the cycle commute to the office. The tough 1000D Cordura build rolls with demanding use and there’s a stabilizer strap for enhanced load stability during active use. The bag fits a 13″ laptop and has sufficient space to stash a change of clothes if needed.

Apidura City Messenger (from US$110)

Building on years of bikepacking and outdoor cycling experience, Apidura’s City Messenger fuses technical construction and expertise with clean aesthetics for urban settings. The messenger features waterproof, lightweight CT420 Marle material and welded construction to keep the elements out. The zipless opening offers quick and convenient one-handed access and you also benefit from dedicated storage for 11″ or 13″ tech. Add in the ambidextrous strap and you get a stylish commuting companion for on and off the bike.

Brooks England Strand (US$108)

The Brooks England Strand exudes pared-back professionalism with its clean design made from weatherproof coated nylon and Cordura. Inside you’ll find a padded laptop compartment and pockets for small items, while an exterior back pocket stores quick-access items. And for carry comfort on the go, the bag has an adjustable shoulder strap and a belt to secure the load.

Mission Workshop The Monty Advanced (US$285)

Made in the USA with water-resistant, durable HT500 fabric, the Mission Workshop Monty Advanced is tough enough to embrace whatever the commute throws at you, while delivering sleek work-friendly styling. It fits up to a 15″ laptop in the main compartment, with a selection of pockets to store smaller gear. It secures with Mission Workshop’s Arkiv® closure system and provides a removable stabilizer strap. Plus it’s backed by a lifetime guarantee.

Brooks England Barbican Hard Leather Shoulder Bag (~US$408)

Pricey but oh so chic, the Brooks England Barbican Hard Leather Shoulder Bag is crafted in England with vegetable-tanned leather (the same used in their saddles). Simple, suave and adaptable, this shoulder bag looks slick in office settings, out and about in town or on your travels. The adjustable shoulder strap also serves as a waist belt for securing the bag during more active use.

Best outdoor messengers

Chrome industries citizen (us$150).

The Chrome Industries Citizen is a tough and adaptable messenger for carrying work supplies and weekend essentials alike. The water-resistant bag includes a stabilizer strap, reflective detailing, and a quick-release buckle for life on two wheels, along with sufficient space for up to a 15″ laptop and pockets for storing smaller items.

Patagonia Stealth Sling 10L (US$169)

The Stealth Sling is a dependable outdoor companion for fishing trips. It’s built with a range of intuitive organization options to keep your fishing gear secure yet easily accesible when required including a net holder and quick-access storage for fly boxes. Designed to be light, quiet, comfortable for all-day wear and of course water-resistant too, it’s a dependable piece that gives you the freedom to make the most of fishing trips.

Timbuk2 Especial Stash 22L Messenger (~US$248)

With its abrasion-resistant build, weather-resistant exterior, waterproof laptop compartment, and reflective detailing, Timbuk2’s Especial Stash 22L Messenger takes commuting or outdoor exploring in any weather in its stride. The bag has an ambidextrous shoulder strap with a quick-release buckle, as well as magnetic buckles on the flap to help you easily access gear. It fits a 17″ laptop and its lifetime warranty is a welcome bonus too.

Best ‘designer’ shoulder bags

Ally capellino kenny (~us$95).

The Ally Capellino Kenny brings chic style to your daily commute, about-town jaunts and travel excursions. Made with lightweight, abrasion-resistant, and water-resistant Cordura© nylon, it’s tough enough for daily use and understated enough to suit a variety of carry environments. The bag is large enough for 13″ tech devices and includes a minimalist yet functional range of pockets to keep your gear organized without cluttering up the design.

côte&ciel Oder-Spree Memory Tech Messenger Bag (US$265)

A lot of designer bags lean heavily towards fashion over function. But côte&ciel delivers a great mix of both with the Oder-Spree Memory Tech Messenger Bag. The bag features an ergonomic design that carries close to the body for comfort. Complementing the fashion-forward styling is functional organization including a padded laptop pocket, two exterior zipped pockets, and an open rear pocket for quick-access items.

Best large Japanese messenger

As2ov cordura dobby 305d 2way bag (us$227).

Rugged street style, flexible carry options and plenty of space makes this AS2OV Cordura Dobby 305D 2Way Bag well suited to overnight trips, hauling large day-to-day loads or combining gym and work gear for convenient one-bag carry. The bag can be carried as a messenger or a tote and offers a variety of pockets including a padded laptop pocket.

Key Considerations When Choosing Your Bag

Ultimately, a lot of factors come into play to determine where messengers and shoulder bags will excel. Check out these tips on what to look for when choosing your ideal shoulder or messenger bag.

If you need a splash of fashion with your function, you may be wondering, are messenger bags still cool? Of course they are! And are messenger bags unisex? For the most part, yes. But this incredibly popular carry category comes in a great variety of styles, colorways, and materials to cater to a wide range of tastes and needs. So to help you choose, it’s useful to think about where you’ll be using the bag.

Do you need it for work purposes? If so, is your work environment smart-casual or formal? In these cases, understated colorways like black, gray, navy, or tan will blend in better (no matter how much you may be digging that blazing orange, it’s best saved for after-work hours). Clean silhouettes or soft draping designs will also be easier to fit in formal environments than “busy” designs that draw the eye (but not for the right reasons). If you won’t be using the bag for work purposes (or your work environment is more laid-back), you’ve got a little more freedom in the style department. Yep, bring on that blazing orange…

Size and weight

Obviously your messenger or shoulder bag needs to be large enough to hold all the gear you need it to. But you’ll want to be careful here. The bigger the bag is, the more bulk you’ll be carrying around. Ask yourself if the added space is worth the increased weight and bulk penalty. Maybe you need it or really value the ability to accommodate a variety of loads from one day to the next. But if you tend to carry a set amount of gear, picking a bag that’s just big enough without adding unnecessary weight may be a better option.

For example, are messenger bags good for laptops? Some are much better suited to tech carry than others and will be sized accordingly to fit different devices. They may also have additional features such as padded sleeves that add to the bulk. Potentially increased size and bulk is a worthy trade-off if you regularly carry a laptop but unnecessary if you don’t.

So you’ve got a bag that’s the right size and suits your style, but how about getting to your gear? One of the key advantages of messengers and shoulder bags over other types of carry is the on-body access they provide. The ability to easily swing them round to your front to get to frequently used essentials or to access gear from the main compartment without having to remove the bag from your shoulder. Features such as quick-release shoulder straps, exterior pockets, magnetic or one-handed flap buckles, and multiple access points to the main compartment will help you get to gear in a jiffy.

Are you going to be putting your bag through the wringer on regular cycle commutes ? Shoving it in and out of overhead compartments or heading off into the wilderness for a day of exploring trails or outdoor photography? The more demanding you are on your bag, the tougher it will need to be. Abrasion-resistant and water-resistant materials along with trusty construction will help your bag cope when the going gets tough. Great for an EDC messenger bag that needs to endure demanding use or a travel messenger bag you can rely on to keep going strong. If your bag will be living a more relaxed or sheltered life, you can dial back on the durability, which may help you cut some weight.

While shoulder bags and messengers don’t offer the same level of load distribution that backpacks do, they can still be comfortable to carry. Keep an eye out for a wide shoulder strap that will help spread the load a little, as well as padding on the strap to help enhance comfort. For more active use your chosen bag should offer good breathability in the back panel, a design that hugs the body, and a stabilizer strap or waist belt to help secure the load. And carry handles come in useful too when you want to give your shoulder a breather or are carrying the bag over shorter distances or in more formal environments.

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What’s your favorite shoulder bag or messenger? Hit us in the comments. 

This article was originally published on 26 February 2019 and recently updated.

IN THIS ARTICLE

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The 5 Best Messenger Bags of 2024

We've purchased and tested 35 unique messenger bags since 2014 in our quest for the best. We bought eight of the leading products available today for our comprehensive, side-by-side testing. Messenger bags have come a long way from the original powerline workers' tool bag, but the countless versions today should nonetheless be highly functional and versatile. Our testers wore them on foot, bike, and while riding public transit to see and feel firsthand how each performed. Whether you're looking for a classy bag for the office or a gear-toting bike companion, we've tested each contender for quality, durability, and design to better help you choose the right luggage for the job.

Our team of review experts is quite well traveled , and we've tested the best travel bags and backpacks on the market. If a messenger bag isn't your style, we also have in-depth reviews that cover the best backpacks , a lineup of the best travel backpacks , top-rated school backpacks , and our favorite daypacks .

Top 8 Product Ratings

Best overall messenger bag, chrome buran iii.

• Comfort 10.0
• Packing & Organization 9.0
• Electronics 9.0
• Ease of Use 9.0
• Construction Quality 9.0

The Buran III is a tech-centered take on Chrome's classic weatherproof messenger bag. It is designed with an emphasis on ease of use, comfort, and rugged durability. It has one of Chrome's iconic seatbelt buckles for easy on and off and an easily accessible pocket for your U-lock under the front flap. The fabric is weatherproof with a tarpaulin-lined 1050d fabric on the exterior and a second layer of tarpaulin inside of that. This is essentially a bag within a bag, giving you extra weatherproofing for big rainstorms or extra storage for your sweaty gym clothes — depending on your climate and lifestyle. The pockets and storage are well-conceived and easy to use. The shoulder strap is ambidextrous for left or right shoulder carry, and the padding is generous, making the bag comfortable on and off the bike. The padded laptop pocket can accommodate up to a 17" naked laptop, the biggest in our review.

Our gripes with the Buran III were few, and some people may find them inconsequential. It's heavier than most other bags we tested, but it's so comfortable and easy to use that it doesn't feel heavy while wearing. The padded laptop pocket is on the back of the bag, and there is a burly hood on the zipper, but the zipper is not waterproof. This likely won't be an issue since your computer will be protected by the rest of your bag (as well as your back), but it still seems like an oversight. If you live in a wet climate and want some extra peace of mind, we recommend the water-resistant Timbuk2 Especial Stash , which has a fully waterproof laptop compartment. Our last bone to pick with the Buran III is that it's pretty pricey, but we think the design quality is worth it. If you're a tech professional, student, or urban user of an e-bike for commuting , we think you'll appreciate this rugged and well-conceived bag for moving your gear around town.

Read more: Chrome Buran III review

Best Bang for Your Buck

Timbuk2 classic.

• Comfort 7.0
• Packing & Organization 8.0
• Electronics 5.0
• Ease of Use 8.0
• Construction Quality 8.0

Not everyone's commute is the same every single day. If you bike to work some days, walk others, and drive the rest of the time, the Timbuk2 Classic may be a brilliant choice. It's great for those who like the option of carrying their belongings on one shoulder for short distances or cinching everything up securely across the body for longer trips. The straps are easy to use, the pocket options are numerous, and the robust material is water-resistant. We particularly liked the internal water bottle pockets to help keep bottles and mugs upright. This bag is offered in four different sizes, all at very reasonable price points. Tried and true, it's been around for decades for a reason. As a bonus, it comes in lots of fun colors, and for a little extra cash, it is fully customizable.

The serious bike commuter will notice that the Classic isn't as ergonomic for cycling. Though still quite comfortable, it doesn't hug the body as tightly or aerodynamically as some other models. It also doesn't have any outside pockets, so you'll need to get under the main flap to access your gear. The padding in the laptop compartment is extremely minimal, so some mindfulness is required when handling it. Unlike some other messenger bags we tested, this bag is optimized for left-shoulder-only carry, so lefties may want to request a custom right-shoulder bag — which Timbuk2 can accommodate. If simple, straightforward, and affordable are critical points in your bag search, this is a definite contender. If you don't need to carry a laptop frequently, the Chrome Kadet Sling is another affordable sling to consider.

Read more: Timbuk2 Classic review

Best Buy on a Tight Budget

Oiwas 15.6" laptop.

• Comfort 6.0
• Packing & Organization 7.0
• Electronics 7.0
• Ease of Use 5.0
• Construction Quality 5.0

The Oiwas 15.6" Laptop messenger bag is a great option if you're looking to spend a minimal amount on a bag or you're simply not sure if the messenger bag is the style you want. Side note — check out our recommendations for buying a messenger bag if that latter option sounds like you. This bag clocks in at a fraction of the price of other bags in our lineup and performs well above its price. It is reasonably comfortable for your morning commute and has some internal organization features like dual bottle pockets that we're quite fond of. It can also be worn on either side of your body.

Opposite of other bags in our lineup, if you like to carry your bag on your back, cross-body style, this may not be the right option for you. We found it much more comfortable carried over one shoulder by your side, so bike commuters take note. While we liked most of the organization features, some of the pockets seemed less than ideal, and it wasn't the easiest to put on, take off, or adjust the strap size. Still, for the price, this bag is a great option if you only need a messenger bag for occasional use. Other small bag options that are ideal for occasional use are the Kadet Sling and Matein 15.6" Laptop .

Best for Electronics

Timbuk2 especial stash.

• Comfort 8.0
• Packing & Organization 10.0
• Electronics 10.0

The Timbuk2 Especial Stash is a comfortable, lightweight, and highly functional messenger bag. If you're looking for a highly water-resistant bag designed for biking with your electronics, then this is a great option for you. A waterproof laptop compartment means you can forge ahead with confidence that your gear is protected even when the skies open up. The brightly-colored interior makes it easy to find what you need, and the pockets are well-designed without being excessive. An ambidextrous strap and magnetic buckles, which can be operated one-handed, make the Stash user-friendly and efficient to carry. Smart features like an external water bottle pocket and plentiful accessory loops mean your essentials are never hard to access.

If you like to carry your bag on one shoulder while walking (as opposed to cross-body), this may not be the best choice for you. The Stash is optimized for commuters who prefer a more traditional messenger design intended to hug the back snugly while zipping through town on a bike or a scooter. The tapered shape also isn't as conducive to sitting upright when set down on the ground. Because there's no velcro, you will have to commit to clipping the magnetic buckles every time to keep the front flap secure (though you won't have to make a loud ripping sound every time you want to get inside). That aside, if you value durability and weather resistance in a bike-friendly design that provides some of the best protection for your electronics, this is the bag for you.

Read more: Timbuk2 Especial Stash review

Best for Urban Commutes

Mission workshop monty.

• Electronics 6.0

The Mission Workshop Monty is a great weatherproof messenger bag with quality construction and intuitive design. It has just enough pockets for easy organization without unnecessary extra storage features. The body-hugging design and vertical orientation of the bag are optimized for bike commuting, but it is also comfortable to wear while walking or using public transit. You can use it in the traditional flap-down mode or close the bag with the roll-top configuration for more space. The laptop pocket is fully waterproof and can accommodate a 15" laptop, and its flap-down closure provides an extra layer of security. The burly 1000d fabric and weatherproof liner make this bag a great option for anyone who's tough on their gear and needs protection from inclement weather.

There are a couple of drawbacks to this otherwise well-designed bag. For starters, the Monty 's laptop compartment isn't padded; you can use a laptop sleeve, but then you'll have to store your computer in the bag's main compartment. If you need more laptop padding or to accommodate a large laptop, consider the Chrome Buran III . The Monty's cargo pockets are the perfect size for a mini U-lock , but the flap is too tight for a perfect seal over the lock (we used an old mini ABUS U-lock), causing the flap to close asymmetrically over the top. It's not a deal-breaker, but a little clunky for an otherwise flawless bag. We wish the shoulder strap were ambidextrous, but it's designed for right-handed folks. Finally, the Monty is a bit short on organizational features and pockets compared to some of the other bags we tested. Regardless, this made-in-the-USA bag is perfect for the minimalist bike commuter seeking a durably crafted and weatherproof messenger bag.

Read more: Mission Workshop Monty review

Ideal for Photographers

Peak design everyday messenger.

• Electronics 8.0
• Construction Quality 7.0

Peak Design is a company that prides itself on designing user-friendly products for carrying camera equipment and electronics with ease. The Everyday Messenger is no exception. This feature-rich bag has ambidextrous carrying capacities and provides great organization for camera equipment and other electronics. It is weather-resistant (though not waterproof), mounts easily onto the trolley handle of wheeled luggage for travel, and sits upright for easy access to your gear. For the right person or photographer, this bag is an exceptional option.

Some of the features of the Everyday Messenger seem over-designed, and there is a learning curve to figuring out how to sort all your gear in the bag. For an average commuter — rather than a photographer — some of the storage features will be superfluous. The patented MagLatch closure system is a bit tricky to use, and while it is silent compared to Velcro, it takes some time to get used to it. This bag is not ideal for bike commuting and provides somewhat average comfort for regular use, but for someone who needs well-conceived features for carrying camera equipment or myriad electronic components, this beautiful bag is ideal.

Read more: Peak Design Everyday Messenger review

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Why You Should Trust Us

We started our review process with inquisitive conversations with our bike-commuting friends to determine the essential elements of a functional messenger bag. Then, we logged many hours of online research and made an initial cut down to 60 potential bags to test. We selected the most popular – and most promising – to test side-by-side for this review. We categorized the most important messenger bag performance features into a series of rating metrics and developed a specific testing protocol for each one. For example, we tested our Packing and Organization metric by subjecting each bag to an identical "test load." With all our bags in hand, we loaded them to the gills and commuted all over – on folding electric bikes , on foot, and by public transit – to put these bags to the test.

• Comfort (30% of overall score weighting)
• Packing & Organization (30% weighting)
• Electronics (15% weighting)
• Ease of Use (15% weighting)
• Construction Quality (10% weighting)

The masterminds behind this review are Mary Witlacil , Penney Garrett , and Hale Milano . Mary is a lifelong bike commuter who has lived without a car for over a decade. She is working on her Ph.D. in Environmental Politics at Colorado State University, so she is no stranger to riding her bicycle in inclement weather while commuting to class. Outside of school, she spends the majority of her time climbing alpine granite and sandstone splitters in the desert. Penney is a certified nutritionist , clinical herbalist , and trained botanist , so she has spent many years commuting — both on a bike and by foot — with books, papers, electronics, and random plant specimens. She lives in Tahoe, where she rock climbs, hikes, bikes, practices yoga, and cooks a whole lot. Hale has traveled for work full time carrying the full suite of conference room necessities such as laptops, books, speakers, & snacks, and is well versed in what type of travel gear can make a car or plane commute more comfortable.

Analysis and Test Results

The modern messenger bag has evolved dramatically from the original 1950s design. Initially, powerline workers needed a durable bag to keep their heavy, bulky, and awkward tools easily accessible while climbing utility poles. This type of design later caught on among bicycle messengers and became a classic style that lives on in models from companies like Timbuk2, Chrome, and Mission Workshop.

To honor the history of the messenger, we decided it was appropriate to rank both Comfort and Packing and Organization as our two most important performance metrics. Electronics, Ease of Use, and Construction Quality comprise the rest of our testing criteria. We focused on ensuring that our testing process and subsequent review retained the spirit of the original messenger bag design while keeping a modern context in mind. The result is a diverse selection of options that are excellent — in different ways — for carrying your tools comfortably and safely around town and beyond.

We take several months to test each of these bags. This extended testing period allows us to spend quality time with each product and fully evaluate its performance. We dig into the nitty-gritty details of every bag to produce a comprehensive review, with the hope that it inspires confidence in your buying decision. We always pay attention to how performance relates to cost. If you're looking for an outstanding bag with a ton of features, perhaps you're okay with paying more for it. However, if funds are tight, you may be looking for a better balance of performance and affordability.

The Timbuk2 Classic earns high marks across each of our performance metrics and has a more reasonable price tag than many other bags in our review. Alternatively, if you don't need a bag with a large volume, the Chrome Kadet Sling is a smaller bag that earns respectable overall scores and fetches a lower price than most.

The Oiwas bag is another great value option. Though its performance lacks the same results as some of the other bags in our lineup, the price is exponentially less than others. If you're on a tight budget or simply have the occasional need for a messenger bag, this is a great option to consider.

The classic messenger bag design is a close-fitting shoulder bag that easily swings around to the front of the body and has a stabilizing strap to keep it secure while you're moving. This design provided powerline workers with easy access to their tools and, in more modern times, became a popular design for bike messengers. The shoulder straps have widened over the years to increase comfort for single-shoulder carrying. With improved backpack designs, however, bike commuters often opt for two shoulder straps instead of just one. Backpacks don't swing around to the front quite as quickly as messenger bags, but if you're just making one or two stops and you don't need to grab things from your bag super quickly, it is likely a more comfortable option.

Related: Best Laptop Backpack of 2024

To keep up with the shifting needs of urban commuters, more and more bag companies offer backpacks, casual briefcases, or eclectic messenger hybrids. The classic messenger style is less popular than it once was, but the benefit of this is that most of the options that remain tend to be well-executed and thoughtfully designed. To assess the comfort of each model in our review, we took each bag out for various trips, focusing on all manner of activities. Each bag has a setting in which it's most appropriate, and we made sure to use it in that application — and, of course, we took a bike ride with every model to see how it fared on a bicycle as well. As we biked, we took notes of the carrying comfort of various load types and weights. We also made sure to max out every bag and report on its optimum load size and the tipping point when the bag became unwieldy or uncomfortable.

In our initial rounds of testing, we asked a few essential questions: how does this bag feel on the back and shoulders? How is the padding? And most importantly, how does it handle various load types and weights? After that, we assessed each model's design features and considered whether they helped or hindered overall comfort.

No surprise, a bag's strap design factors heavily when considering comfort. Companies are increasingly creative with improving the feel of shoulder straps, but comfy straps aren't necessarily the whole story. The way a bag rests on your back and how closely it sits to your body are also very important; the Chrome Buran III and Chrome Kadet Sling are all excellent examples of this.

The Buran III also features ambidextrous shoulder straps, so lefties can catch a break without breaking the bank for a custom bag. The Buran also has ample padding on the shoulder straps, and the cross-body strap guarantees a stable and secure fit while riding your bike or just walking around.

The Timbuk2 Especial Stash has an ergonomic fit, good padding, and lots of easy adjustment options. It is another bag optimized for bike commuting in that it sits vertically in the middle of the back rather than riding low along the waistline.

If you prefer the comfort of a less bike-specific shape, then the Timbuk2 Classic or the Peak Design Everyday Messenger are both excellent options. These bags sit horizontally on your back and are more rectangular, with less tapering near the base of the bag. The shoulder strap is more conducive to a casual one-shoulder carry because it is not aggressively angled, and the padding can be centered on the strap for however you prefer to carry it. These bags can work great for cycling, too, but they do sit lower on the back, so they tend to be less comfortable on a bike. Much of this is a personal preference, but if you spend more time walking around than biking, ergonomic considerations such as these are essential to consider.

A sling bag can be great for those who prefer a smaller, tighter package on their back, and the Chrome Kadet Sling fills that role. The Kadet Sling delivers classic Chrome comfort across the shoulder and has their iconic seatbelt buckle for easily taking the bag on and off. Another compact bag is the Oiwas . Its small size makes it comfortable for walking, though it's more comfortable carried over one shoulder versus across the back, given its lack of padding.

Packing & Organization

A high-quality messenger bag should improve and support daily commuting with a broad array of attributes: comfort, of course, but also an ability to hold, secure, and facilitate easy access to the items inside. To be effective, a bag needs to address diverse circumstances that may change from one day to the next. A bag's storage design also needs to be efficient. No one wants to be weighed down or hindered by their gear or daily essentials; we all want a bag that allows us to feel free and nimble. A well-designed bag will enable straightforward organization without the user having to overthink anything.

The Especial Stash offers an assortment of great features for easy and intuitive packing, including a brightly colored interior for added visibility. A large zippered external pocket with a key clip is great for fast access to essentials, and the inside offers just the right amount of options for electronics and small items without going overboard. There's also a mesh water bottle pocket and multiple webbing options for bike lights or other small accessories on the outside of this highly weather-resistant bag.

Coming in at a close second is the Buran III . This messenger bag has a sufficient number of pockets to stash your essentials without encumbering you with surplus features. Underneath the flap is a dedicated, easily accessible U-lock pocket, allowing you to lock your bike swiftly. Additionally, you'll find slots for travel mugs and water bottles, electronic cord storage, and zippered pockets to secure your wallet and phone.

The Mission Workshop Monty and the Peak Design Everyday Messenger performed well in this category for opposite reasons. The Monty is simple, straightforward, and intuitive. The storage features are minimalistic, so you don't have to sweat over where you're going to store all your bits and bobs. On the flip side, the Everyday Messenger has a plethora of pockets, slots, and storage options. There are internal dividers that velcro in place to separate your camera body from lenses or to organize your lunch and beverages. It has a key leash on a shock cord with a removable key fob, so you always know where to find your key, and large and small zippered pockets and slots of all varieties. It is an ace for organization if you prefer a bag with countless compartments to house all your essentials.

The Timbuk2 Classic and the Oiwas have very similar designs, even among the niche messenger bag lineup. Both of these bags fit our full test packing load with ease, though the Timbuk2 had a little extra room in the bag and extra room with the straps to cinch down over really large loads. The internal pocket layout is also similar, with dual bottle holders on the interior. These pockets are a little on the small side but work well for narrow bottles. We give the nod to the Timbuk2 as the material is more robust and less slippery, helping to keep things organized.

Electronics

Back in the 80s, when these bags started to take off among bicycle messengers, no one was toting around notebook-sized computers, small space-age touchscreen gadgets, or tiny cell phones. Today, however, things have changed dramatically, and most manufacturers have evolved with the times to fit people's needs. The majority of models in this review have kept true to the spirit of the original messenger — that is, allow easy access to one's tools. Most of our top-scoring bags include padded laptop sleeves and pockets that are useful for cords and tablets because, let's face it, electronics are the tools of this era.

The Especial Stash takes top marks here again. This bag has a padded and fully waterproof laptop compartment. The sleeve is closed via a zipper covered by a thick protective flap and fits up to a 15" computer. If you don't need to use the waterproof sleeve, your laptop will also fit just in front of that in a second padded area, and there are useful pockets for cords and various accessories. Not only is the laptop area waterproof, but the entire bag is also highly impervious to water. We sprayed every bag with a garden hose, and the Stash stayed bone-dry inside.

The Buran III also earned top marks in this category because it can accommodate up to a 17" laptop — the largest in our review. The laptop pocket is also padded and lined with waterproof material. On top of that, it has several pockets well-poised to stash your chargers and other smaller electronics. The only reason it didn't earn full marks in this category is that it doesn't have a waterproof zipper. That said, with the laptop pocket situated against your back, it is highly unlikely that water could find its way into this pocket, and if you're concerned about this, you could always stash your computer in the main compartment, which is fully weatherproof.

Some other great options include the Peak Design Everyday Messenger and the Oiwas , as well as the Mission Monty . The Everyday Messenger has two sleeves for storing a tablet and your laptop, as well as countless features for safely storing and organizing your other electronics or camera equipment. While the Oiwas didn't have a dedicated tablet pouch, it was lightly padded and had plenty of room for chargers and accessories, like a mouse and headphones. The Monty has a fully waterproof pocket for up to a 15" laptop, though this pocket isn't padded.

Ease of Use

A bag needs to keep up on a rigorous commute, whether by bike, foot, subway, skateboard, rollerblade, motorcycle, or Vespa. The messenger is a bag for many traveler types, from the urban athlete to the reluctant business person. We assessed how logical, intuitive, and easy each bag was to pack, as well as how quickly we could access its contents. Our attention to these details spanned humdrum daily errands, urban adventures, airport travel, and even a hike or two.

Both Chrome bags and the Mission Workshop soared above the competition in this category. We love it when a bag performs the basics easily and efficiently without going overboard. Some designs try to do too much, and you end up with a product that looks good on paper but can be a pain to use in real life. The Buran III is the easiest bag to use, with the Kadet Sling and Monty coming in next. Chrome's iconic seatbelt buckle makes it easy to put on and take off both the Buran and the Kadet. The combination of zippers, velcro, and plastic buckles means there aren't any over-designed features for opening or closing the bags. The storage and organization features are sufficient without being excessive.

The Monty is just about as user-friendly as it gets. However, you do have to lift the bag over your head to take it off, which can be more difficult if you're packing serious weight. Aside from that, we dig that you have options on how you close the bag. Whether you're utilizing the roll-top or flip-down configuration, you can either expand for more storage space or enjoy more accessible gear. Adjusting the strap length is a breeze, and the features are intuitive, so you can load up and get on with your day.

Another easy-to-use option is the Especial Stash . Like the Buran III , the Stash is fully ambidextrous, and it is easy to switch between left and right shoulder carry. The shoulder strap is easy to adjust, though you do have to lift this bag over your head to take it off. Our only complaint is that the velcro strap minder is not ideal for stashing excess strap if you have to fully tighten everything down. The magnetic closures can be undone with one hand, though there is a minor learning curve to figure them out, and the neon interior makes it easy to find your gear inside the pack.

The affordable standout, the Timbuk2 Classic , is pretty user-friendly as well. The pockets and compartments are conveniently placed and straightforward. The Classic is simple with male/female buckles; it has velcro on the front and a "cinch" buckle on the shoulder strap that adjusts easily and quickly — just make sure to close the cinching mechanism, or it might accidentally loosen. After a nice firm tug on the strap, we had no issues with this strap, and some of our testers preferred this quick adjust system over other, potentially more secure, adjusting styles.

Construction Quality

What good is a well-designed bag without longevity? We examined the quality of construction, materials, and weather resistance of each model we tested. We also meticulously examined each bag for any noticeable signs of wear and tear at the end of our multi-month testing period.

Receiving high marks yet again is the Especial Stash . This high-quality bag features excellent craftsmanship while remaining relatively lightweight. The material is both weather-resistant and durable, while the interior laptop compartment is fully waterproof. Even after all our rounds of rigorous testing, the Stash looked practically unused.

The Buran III and the Monty are also notable here. The Buran boasts incredibly durable 1050D nylon fabric, a tarpaulin lining, and impressive construction. This model is essentially two bags — a liner and a durable outer shell — which ensures excellent weather resistance and stellar durability, though it does add some weight. There's a reason you still see these workhorses on the backs of many-a-cyclist. One reviewer used a similar model from Chrome as a daily commuter for well over a decade. The Monty boasts a similarly rugged 1000D nylon fabric with a tarp liner for weather protection and durability. The bag is made in San Francisco and designed to keep up with your commute for the long haul.

The Timbuk2 Classic is another high performer in this category. The Classic is made from a TPU-lined Cordura fabric which, like the models above, makes it weather-resistant and very durable. Add to that a sensible design without any flimsy components or materials, and you have a bag that is not only affordable but will last a long time.

Style is not a metric in this review because it's so subjective. However, there is a strong argument to be made for the statement you make with your bag. Over-the-shoulder bags have been around for a long time, at first adapted from military map bags for the broader public. The messenger, as we tend to think of it, has its roots firmly planted in powerline workers' bags from the 1950s. In the 80s, this style was updated, adjusted, and appropriated for bicycle messengers, and the category has since exploded. These bags have an urban flair and a toughness that tends to mirror their hard-working owners.

Though the shape and design of messenger bags have evolved and expanded dramatically over the years, the original concept remains the same. It's a bag to carry your daily toolkit wherever you're going and however you plan to get there. For bike messengers, the volume, balance, and ease of access are critical. For daily commuters, it's all about comfort and intuitive packability.

The bags in this review fill the needs of the modern urban commuter very well, offering a balanced blend of function and fashion depending on your needs and preferences. We hope this review has helped direct you to the best bag for your daily gear. In the end, the spirit of the traditional messenger bag holds steady: a durable bag that allows freedom of movement in a variety of urban environments and easy access to your toolkit. Whether you're carrying wrenches and hammers up a powerline or tablets and gadgets up the elevator, there's likely a modern messenger bag made just for you.

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Our Favorite Messenger Bags

By Sri Rain Stewart

Sri Rain Stewart is a writer covering style, gifts, and beauty. She is also a yoga enthusiast and the author of a guide to the best yoga blocks.

The messenger bag has been successfully—and stylishly—helping people get stuff from A to B since the days of the Pony Express. Casual yet still put-together, this type of bag is more practical and comfortable than a tote, more relaxed than a briefcase, and more professional than a backpack. Worn across the body or with a strap over one shoulder, a messenger bag is especially ideal for commuters because it has a slim silhouette and provides easy access to belongings while you’re on the go.

A great messenger bag should be well organized, roomy enough to hold the essentials, attractive, and comfortable to carry. We tested 20 bags, commuting with them for months via train, bike, car, and plane. We came away with five favorites that will suit a range of tastes, budgets, and lifestyles. Our picks include a well-priced and abundantly organized nylon classic , a compact waxed-canvas messenger with a vintage look , a stylishly structured canvas bag , a utilitarian nylon bag originally designed for bike messengers , and a splurge-worthy leather investment piece .

The research

A well-organized, durable nylon bag: timbuk2 classic messenger bag, a compact, waxed-canvas bag with a vintage look: waterfield vitesse cycling musette, a structured, polished canvas bag: matt & nat martel vegan messenger bag, a spacious, utilitarian bag for cyclists and beyond: chrome citizen messenger bag, a timeless, splurge-worthy leather bag: waterfield executive leather messenger, other good messenger bags, who this is for, how we picked and tested, the competition.

Timbuk2 Classic Messenger Bag

Durable organizer.

This well-priced, exceptionally sturdy nylon bag has a waterproof lining and lots of handy pockets—including a padded laptop sleeve—to keep you organized. It comes in a wide range of sizes and colors, and it can be customized (at extra cost).

Buying Options

If someone mentions a messenger bag, chances are good the image that pops into your head will look a lot like the Timbuk2 Classic Messenger Bag . This clean, minimalist nylon bag happens to be an excellent example of the genre: It’s well organized, comfortable to carry, and durable enough to survive daily commutes. Plus, it comes in four sizes and a wide range of colors, and it can be customized (at additional cost) with features like extra handles and pockets. For a bag at this price, the quality stands out even more—in online reviews, people rave about their Classic Messengers lasting for years and even over a decade .

It’s comfortable and versatile. The Classic Messenger’s shoulder strap is padded with OrthoLite foam (a breathable, cushioned material), which helps ease heavy loads. During testing, we found this bag to be comfortable to carry, even when it was slung over a shoulder for an hour-long commute.

The strap can be switched into a right- or left-dominant carrying position—an unusual feature and a nice option for lefties. The strap length can be extended quickly using a strong buckle made of aircraft-grade aluminum. Its maximum length is 70 inches—the longest among our picks—so this bag is a good option for many different body types.

And on the back of the Classic Messenger, there’s a small nylon handle that makes picking it up and moving it around easy (without having to tuck the bag under an arm, as if we were playing a game of rugby).

It’s tough and weather-resistant. This bag is made of Cordura, an extra-sturdy, weather-resistant nylon fabric; there’s also a waterproof lining, to protect your belongings. And when the Classic Messenger is closed, the corners of the bag fold inward so the material can prevent water from getting in. Waterproofing is fairly common in messenger bags, thanks to their bike-courier origins, but it’s not universal, and it’s definitely a plus.

It has tons of interior organization. Don’t be fooled by the simple look of this bag’s exterior. The Classic Messenger has over 10 organizational compartments, including dual water-bottle pockets and a padded laptop sleeve. (We tested the bag in a medium, which fits a laptop up to 16 inches; the other sizes hold laptops ranging from 11 inches (the extra-small ) to 17 inches (the large.) The big front pocket, beneath the flap, has hidden vertical-zip compartments, in which you can stash small items (like a wallet ) and access them with one hand. There’s also a convenient keychain hook.

It can be customized (for a price). Think of this as the “Choose Your Own Adventure” of messenger bags. The standard model is available in four sizes (extra-small to large) and nine colors, including solids and colorblock. Or you can get a custom version instead; you can choose from over 40 color options, in various fabrics (like reflective silver), and get the exact organizational features you want.

Just be aware that these add-ons can add up fast—the laptop sleeve and water-bottle pockets that come standard on the Classic Messenger cost $20 and $5, respectively. But if you’re passionate about having a design look just so, it may be a worthy investment.

Flaws but not dealbreakers

Per Timbuk2’s lifetime warranty policy, if this bag needs to be sent to the company’s repair facility, it’s the customer’s responsibility to arrange and pay for shipping.

Dimensions: 13.4 by 17.9 by 7.28 inches (size medium) Weight: 2.2 pounds Capacity: 16 liters Materials: nylon Shoulder-strap length: 70 inches (maximum) Warranty: lifetime warranty for defects in materials or workmanship (does not cover wear and tear)

Waterfield Vitesse Cycling Musette

Stylish, smaller-scale.

This waxed-canvas messenger has a distinctive vintage aesthetic, and its smooth nylon shoulder strap is extra-comfy. But this is a compact bag, with limited internal organization (and no dedicated laptop pocket), so it’s best for lighter loads.

If you appreciate a vintage look, then consider the Waterfield Vitesse Cycling Musette —an attractive, waxed-canvas messenger bag with distressed leather accents. It feels sturdy and is comfortable to carry, thanks to its soft nylon strap. This is a compact bag—the smallest of our picks—without a ton of space or internal organization, but it does have enough room for the essentials like a laptop, plus a book or two.

It has a cool vintage vibe. The Cycling Musette’s waxed-canvas material—available in either navy or brown—seems pre-loved from Day One, and it will soften more with age. This bag is susceptible to scratches, but the scratches aren’t unappealing—they contribute to its worn-in feel. The bag’s top carry handle is made with distressed full-grain leather, further adding to its character.

Waterfield also offers the Cycling Musette in full-grain leather, rather than canvas, for around $100 more; we have not tested that version.

It’s a compact, minimalist bag that’s best for lighter loads. This bag is the smallest of our picks, with a capacity of 6.15 liters. (For comparison, our largest pick, the Chrome Citizen Messenger Bag , holds 24 liters.) In online reviews , multiple people specifically praise the bag’s “perfect” size, noting that it encourages them to travel light.

The interior of the Cycling Musette is unfussy, with just two open-top pockets. This bag does not have a dedicated laptop compartment, though it can fit a laptop up to 14 inches. Since the canvas body of the bag lacks structure and padding, it doesn’t offer much protection for the contents, so we recommend putting your laptop in a sleeve .

It’s built to last. The Cycling Musette is made from 15-ounce canvas that seems exceptionally sturdy. Its leather top handle also feels durable and strong, even when it’s supporting the bag at full capacity. Previously, this bag had a leather tab closure on the front. It’s been updated with a sturdy, paragliding-style buckle, which is more secure and quicker to unfasten; you just press the sides to release the buckle.

Its carrying strap is user-friendly. The Cycling Musette’s nylon strap extends to a maximum length of 60 inches; it has a smooth, seatbelt-like texture and can even be worn comfortably even against a bare shoulder.

The strap is sewn into the ends of the Cycling Musette at an angle, which allows the bag to be positioned on the body just right. During testing, we appreciated that the bag didn’t awkwardly bang against our hips as we were walking.

• The Cycling Musette’s waxed-canvas material is weather-resistant, but it’s not fully rainproof; the wax offers only some protection.
• This doesn’t have a dedicated laptop pocket (the Chrome Citizen Messenger Bag is our only other pick without one), and there’s not much padding or protection for tech.
• If you overpack this bag, you might feel the contents of the bag digging into your body through the canvas.

Dimensions: 10½ by 16 by 2¾ inches Weight: 1.9 pounds Capacity: 6.15 liters Materials: waxed canvas, leather accents Shoulder-strap length: 60 inches (maximum) Warranty: lifetime for defects in materials or workmanship (does not cover wear and tear)

Matt & Nat Martel Vegan Messenger Bag

Spacious and structured.

This canvas bag, with vegan-leather accents, is polished, roomy, and well organized, and its shoulder strap is removable (if you want to use it as a briefcase). But some testers found the structured shape and shorter strap length resulted in a less-comfortable fit.

May be out of stock

The Matt & Nat Martel Vegan Messenger Bag —a structured, tailored canvas carrier, with vegan leather accents—is an unusually sophisticated-looking messenger bag. It has a spacious, well-organized interior and a removable shoulder strap, if you’d prefer to use it as a briefcase.

It looks upscale and professional. This elevated canvas messenger bag has a clean and polished design, with a single flap (embossed with a discreet brand logo) and no outer pockets. It’s available in three neutral colors: olive, black, and dark tan. The vegan-leather accents (which are plastic-based) contribute to the high-end feel.

On the bag’s interior, there are two lines of embossed text stating the (nylon) lining is made of 100% recycled plastic bottles, along with a claim that Matt & Nat recycles 3 million–plus plastic bottles per year. We reached out repeatedly to a rep to get more details about the company’s vegan materials and sustainability practices , but we did not hear back; in general, it’s often tricky to get clear answers on these issues.

It’s structured and protective. The Martel bag has a structured shape, which acts as a padded shell for your belongings; its flap has both Velcro and snaps to keep it securely closed. But some testers did complain that the stiff canvas felt uncomfortable when it pressed against the body. The tightly woven canvas fabric exterior is durable and weather-resistant, though it’s not waterproof—if you get caught in a downpour, water may penetrate the surface. Treating the canvas with wax can help to (moderately) increase the bag’s water resistance.

It’s roomy. With a capacity of 16.2 liters, this bag is among our roomiest picks. The interior is spare, with lots of open space. There’s a smartphone pocket and a padded laptop sleeve, which can fit devices up to 13 inches.

It can be a messenger bag or a briefcase. The Martel bag has a well-padded crossbody strap that adjusts to 50 inches at its full length. (Some of our taller or broader testers said they wished it were longer; only our Chrome Citizen pick has a shorter shoulder strap, but that bag fits differently due to its stabilizer strap.) If you’d prefer to use the Martel bag like a briefcase, the shoulder strap is removable, and the bag can be carried by its vegan leather top handle.

• Due to its structured silhouette, the Martel bag can feel bulky or bothersome when it's pressed against the body (we received complaints from one petite tester in particular).
• The shoulder strap’s 50-inch maximum length may not be long enough for some people. In particular, Wirecutter staffers who were taller, or those who had breasts or broader chests, noted that the strap made it more difficult to get a comfy fit.
• This bag is covered by only a one-year warranty —the shortest among those of our picks—and it’s unusually skimpy for a messenger bag.

Dimensions: 15 by 12 by 5½ inches Weight: 1.55 lbs Capacity: 16.2 liters Materials: canvas exterior, vegan leather accents, nylon lining Shoulder-strap length: 50 inches (maximum) Warranty: one year

Chrome Citizen Messenger Bag

Utilitarian and ergonomic.

Originally made for bike messengers, this bag is functional and ergonomic, with a quick-release, seatbelt-style buckle and a stabilizer strap. It’s also durable, weatherproof, and well organized, but it doesn’t have a padded laptop compartment.

Use promo code TEAMCHROME, price includes shipping (select colors)

Launched in 1995, the Chrome Citizen Messenger Bag was first designed for bike messengers—so it should come as no surprise that it’s tough and highly utilitarian. (It’s also the most spacious of our picks.) This weatherproof nylon bag has a high, body-hugging fit and a stabilizer strap for weight distribution and stability. It comes in eight colors (ranging from black and gray to bolder red and plum), and the interior offers plenty of organization, though there’s no laptop pocket.

It has a unique strap system and ergonomic fit. The Citizen bag has the closest, highest fit of any of our picks; when fully extended, its padded shoulder strap is 35½ inches (the shortest of the group, by far). There’s also a stabilizer strap, which attaches from the shoulder strap to the corner of the bag (beneath the left arm); it helps with weight distribution and keeps the bag secured snugly to the body. This is especially useful for cyclists because it prevents the bag from slipping forward while you’re pedaling.

At the center of the shoulder strap, there’s a seatbelt-style buckle, which makes getting the bag on and off quick and easy. (There’s a bottle opener on the buckle, as well—just in case you need to crack open a root beer or hard cider during your commute.)

It’s ultra-durable. The exterior of the Citizen bag is made of 1050D nylon, a strong, durable basket-weave fabric often used for tactical and outdoor gear. The interior of the bag has a suspended bucket liner made from 500D TPE tarp, a waterproof, three-ply (or three-layer) fabric with high abrasion resistance. The pockets are lined with water-resistant recycled polyester. For added protection, the front flap closes with both Velcro and buckles.

With its bike-messenger origins, Chrome has a reputation for making tough bags that last, and this messenger bag is backed by strong customer reviews . Wirecutter staff writer Michael Cohen has owned the Citizen bag since 2015, and he reports that it’s still one of his favorite purchases. It’s seen him through various jobs, including cycling throughout New York City as an actual bike messenger, being a tour guide, and puppy parenting.

It’s ultra-roomy and well organized. The Citizen bag is the roomiest of our picks, with a 24-liter capacity. The main compartment has two pockets. It also has a waterproof floating tarp liner that is suspended above the bottom seams (but fixed along the back edge); this keeps moisture from getting through to the interior of the bag. The liner is divided into two compartments, so wet and dry items can be kept separately. On the front face of the bag, beneath the flap, there’s an organizational panel with a zippered pocket and slots for a notebook, phone, and pens. This bag can accommodate a laptop up to 15 inches, but it doesn’t have a dedicated/padded laptop pocket; we recommend that you protect your device with a sleeve .

If you want to add more organization, Chrome sells add-ons, including a messenger organizer (a water-resistant pouch with dividers) and a phone pouch (which attaches to the exterior of the bag).

• With its high, body-hugging fit, the Citizen bag is ergonomic and well suited to many situations (like cycling), but it might not be to everyone’s liking.
• Although the distinctive seat-belt-style buckle on the Citizen bag’s shoulder strap is a popular feature, one tester noted that it can unfasten if you accidentally apply pressure to it. (If that does happen, however, the bag won’t fall off, as long as you’re wearing the stabilizer strap.)

Dimensions: 13 by 22 by 7 inches Weight: 2.8 pounds Capacity: 24 liters Materials: nylon exterior, nylon tarp liner Shoulder-strap length: 35½ inches (maximum) Warranty: lifetime for defects in materials or workmanship (does not cover wear and tear)

Waterfield Executive Leather Messenger

Classic and luxurious.

Made from full-grain leather, this upscale bag has a timeless look, and it has a removable strap, so it can be carried as a messenger bag or a briefcase. It also has a waterproof nylon interior, thoughtful tech organization, and a rear panel that slides onto a wheeled suitcase for travel.

The Waterfield Executive Leather Messenger is a messenger bag for grown-ups. It’s made from luxurious full-grain leather, and it has a removable shoulder strap, so it can also be used as a briefcase. This bag is also travel-ready, with a rear panel that slides onto a rolling suitcase. And its distinctive interior is as well organized as it is attractive.

It’s timeless and beautifully made. The Executive bag is the most expensive of our picks, but its high-quality craftsmanship is evident. It’s available in black, tan, and chocolate brown full-grain leather. We tested the black bag, which has a smooth finish; the other two options have a more-rugged, matte finish that develops a higher-sheen patina over time.

The front flap of the Executive bag is double-layered leather, and it feels extra-sturdy. The flap is secured with a paragliding-style buckle, similar to the one on our Waterfield Vitesse Cycling Musette pick, and it opens and closes easily. The bag’s interior is lined with soft, water-resistant nylon in a rich gold color.

It’s loaded with thoughtful, practical features. There’s a panel on the back of the bag, so you can slide the Executive bag onto the handle of a wheeled suitcase; this is a handy feature for travel, and our other picks don’t have this panel. The shoulder strap has a removable pad (it snaps off), and it extends to a generous 64 inches; if you prefer to wear the bag higher and closer to the body, the strap can be shortened considerably. The shoulder strap is also detachable, so the bag can be carried by its top handle, like a briefcase.

It comes in two sizes. We tested the Executive bag in the compact size, which has a capacity of 7½ liters; it has separate slots for a laptop up to 15 inches and a tablet up to 13 inches. If you’re looking for something roomier, for around $20 extra, this bag also comes in a full size. The full size is an inch or so taller, wider, and deeper than the compact version, with a capacity of 10½ liters and slots for a laptop up to 16 inches and a tablet up to 13½ inches.

It’s impeccably organized. The Executive bag’s interior is a thoughtful blend of form and function. In addition to looking great, the vibrant gold lining serves a purpose: It acts as a contrasting backdrop for your belongings, making them easier to find. The bag’s various compartments are well laid out; in addition to the padded (separate) laptop and tablet sleeves, there are zippered and open pockets for items like your phone and writing utensils, as well as cords and other accessories. There’s also a nylon strap with a metal key fob on it, so when it’s time to find your keys, you don’t have to go on a fishing expedition at the bottom of your bag.

• The Executive bag’s heavy-duty leather may be too hefty for some. At over 3 pounds when empty, this bag weighs the most of any of our picks.
• The tan and chocolate versions of this bag have an intentionally aged finish, which may be too rugged-looking for some tastes. (The black bag has a smooth finish.)
• Even though this bag is well made, if you’re exceptionally hard on your bags—or you like to change styles often—the price may be too high.

Dimensions: 10½ by 14¼ by 2¾ inches (compact size) Weight: 3¼ pounds Capacity: 7½ liters Materials: full-grain leather exterior, nylon lining Shoulder-strap length: 64 inches (maximum) Warranty: lifetime for defects in materials or workmanship (does not cover wear and tear)

If you want a bike-friendly messenger bag that opens two ways: Mission Workshop’s The Monty , a former pick in this guide, is a sleek, utilitarian-style nylon messenger. Unusually, this bag has two modes: It can be opened via its front flap, like a standard messenger bag, or it can be used as a roll-top. The Monty is available in five colors, including olive and red, and it comes with a choice of seven different buckle-color options. Both its exterior and interior are waterproof and weather-resistant. Like our Chrome Citizen Messenger pick, this bag is designed with cyclists in mind—it’s intended to be worn high and snug on the body. Its shoulder strap has a maximum length of 40 inches and is notably well padded, so it’s comfortable even for extended wear (one tester favorably compared it to a cloud). It also has a stabilizer strap, though it doesn’t distribute weight as evenly as the Citizen’s strap. With a capacity of 21 liters, the 10-by-16-by-5-inch Monty is smaller than the Citizen, though it’s plenty roomy. It has three internal pockets (including a zippered compartment with room for a 13-inch laptop), plus space for a 15-inch laptop in its main compartment. Testers noted that the Velcro closures on this bag were construction-level loud.

There are many types of bags out there— backpacks , totes , briefcases —and they all have their pros and cons. The advantage of a messenger bag is that you can carry it hands-free while still being able to access your belongings—without having to take it off—which is especially appealing for commuters. Depending on the materials it’s made from and the overall styling, a messenger bag can look super-casual and rugged or polished, professional, and sleek.

One caveat: Since a messenger bag is carried slung across the shoulder, it can be tough on your back. A shoulder bag causes the back muscles to work asymmetrically —the weight of the bag is not distributed evenly, as it is with a backpack—creating a series of stretching and compressive forces that can lead to injury. It’s important to pick a comfortable messenger bag with good ergonomics, and you should be mindful of how much weight you’re carrying in it and for how long.

Messenger bags are used mainly for commuting. But there are lots of ways to commute—via train, bus, ferry, bike, on foot—so we sought a wide variety of bags that could meet a diverse range of needs.

We selected 18 messenger bags to test, and we evaluated them based on the following criteria:

• Comfort and fit: A messenger bag should be comfortable to wear and not cause shoulder pain, regardless of the length of a commute. We looked for well-designed bags with ergonomic, adjustable straps that fit different body types.
• Quality: We wanted high-quality bags made from durable materials that would stand up to years of wear and tear. We preferred bags that were either fully waterproof or water-resistant enough to safely transport tech gear. We paid close attention to details like closures, zippers, and other hardware. And we considered only bags covered by warranties.
• Organization and capacity: Regardless of whether a bag’s interior has many pockets or is simple and spare, it should keep your belongings in the right place. We gave bonus points to bags with a dedicated laptop sleeve, but we didn’t consider it a necessity. We tested bags in a range of sizes, but we thought that even the smaller options needed to comfortably accommodate the essentials.
• Style: A messenger bag should look good—whether its vibe is utilitarian, vintage, sporty, or professional—without sacrificing functionality.

To evaluate the bags, we recruited a panel of testers, from Wirecutter and beyond, to wear each bag for up to two months on their commutes. (The bags traveled by foot, train, bike, car, and plane.) Our panelists had different body types, representing a range of heights and sizes.

Each panelist stocked their bag with their daily essentials, including a laptop, a laptop charger, a book or notebook, a phone, and pens. Our picks were chosen based on the testers’ feedback and our own assessments.

With its weatherproofing and reflective material, the BaileyWorks Super Pro seemed like it could be a good option for cyclists. But it turned out to be flimsy: It couldn’t retain a shape, and we didn’t feel like our personal items were safe in it. Plus, it lacked organizational features.

The Côte & Ciel Riss Obsidian Black Bag has a striking geometric look, but it ultimately left us underwhelmed. A mesh section in the middle of the bag seemed to serve little purpose, other than altering the overall silhouette.

The Rains Commuter Bag, a previous pick in this guide, was updated to a new model, the Rains Messenger Bag . We tested it and didn’t like its stiff, bulky build. Unlike the well-padded strap on the previous version of this bag, the strap on the Rains Messenger Bag dug uncomfortably into our shoulders. Also, opening the buckle and unzipping the bag was unnecessarily difficult.

Additional reporting by Jordan Bowman and Haley Sprankle. This article was edited by Ingela Ratledge Amundson and Jennifer Hunter.

Meet your guide

Sri Rain Stewart

Sri Rain Stewart is a senior updates writer at Wirecutter covering style, gifts, and beauty. She's written on fashion, culture, and shopping for InStyle, Okayplayer, Rolling Stone, and more. Previously, she was at Barneys New York. When she’s not creative writing, obsessing over music, or a new film to stream, she’s out exploring locally and beyond.

Further reading

Wirecutter’s Favorite Bags, Totes, Backpacks and Carryalls

by Truth Headlam

Whether you’re going to school, work, the gym, the store, or on vacay, you need a bag. Here’s the Wirecutter-recommended carrying gear we love most.

The Best Laptop Tote Bags

by Kaitlyn Wells

Our favorite laptop bags are not only a stylish step up from utilitarian messenger bags but also more refined and work-appropriate than classic canvas totes.

Our Favorite Diaper Bags

by Ellen Lee

Having a fully stocked bag at the ready makes it easier to get out the door and change your kid on the go.

The Best Bike Handlebar Bag

by Sam Schild

After testing dozens of bike handlebar bags, we’ve chosen five that can carry all your riding essentials, no matter where you’re headed.

To revisit this article, visit My Profile, then   View saved stories .

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The Best Messenger and Crossbody Bags

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Best Overall Waterfield Designs Executive Messenger Read more

A Ludicrously Capacious Bag Bellroy Tokyo Work Bag Read more

For 9-to-5 Commuters Chrome Mini Metro Read more

Our Favorite Camera Sling Wandrd Rogue Sling Read more

If I’m out and about and I don’t have a bag slung across my body, I feel naked and unprepared. It’s like venturing into a dungeon without any health potions. What if I need ChapStick? Did I bring ChapStick? How can I fit my phone, keys, and face mask all in the truncated pockets of my jeans? Where do I put the cool rock I just found? Extra storage capacity is essential to my everyday carry, and being able to swing the bag around to the front and grab anything I need is crucial. Backpacks are better for heavy loads or all-day trekking, but for lightweight everyday needs, the best messenger bags are hard to beat.

Be sure to check out all our buying guides , including the Best Backpacks for Work , Best Totes and Purses , Best Bags Made of Recycled Materials , Best Fanny Packs , and Best Camera Bags .

Updated July 2023: We added the Bellroy Tokyo, the Wandrd Rogue, and an explainer on messenger bags.

Best Overall

I’ve gone through my fair share of messenger bags, even before writing about them was part of my job. But Waterfield Designs’ Executive Messenger is hands-down the best messenger bag I’ve ever laid my hands on. Messenger bags are often bulky, even when they’re not full. The leather Executive Messenger addresses this problem by being slim but flexible. There’s just enough internal structure to keep my gadgets safe but enough flexibility that after a few uses it will start to contour to your body. Plus, it has ample interior pockets and pouches to store small things, like lip balm and charging cables. The interior lining is a bright orange, which helps with visibility.

It’s a stylish bag (very dark academia and scholar-chic), and it’s built to last, with a leather outer that has so far weathered nicely. They’re handmade to order, and that attention to detail really shines through. It feels sturdy, the seams are thick and robust, and the pockets and front latch seem like they’re made to last a lifetime.

A Ludicrously Capacious Bag

Bellroy's Tokyo Work Bag is a deceptive little thing. From the outside it looks like any other messenger bag—if a bit more stylish. But once you open it up, that's when you start to realize this isn't any old bag. Inside you'll find a wealth of thoughtfully placed pockets and dividers that make it easy to keep your cables, batteries, and precious trinkets all safe and separate from each other. It seriously feels like it's bigger on the inside. It also has a padded pocket big enough to fit a 16-inch laptop.

Even when it's fully stuffed, it never balloons too far outside its ideal silhouette, which is always a plus. The exterior is made from recycled polyester, and it includes a luggage strap on the back so you can plop it over the handle of a rolling suitcase.

For 9-to-5 Commuters

Waterproof and built to last a lifetime, Chrome’s Mini Metro messenger bag is a classic. From its signature seatbelt-buckle strap to its double-clasp closure mechanism, this is designed with the life of a bike messenger in mind. You load it up and swing it around your back, keeping all the essentials safely packed away.

The waterproof finish and liner are heavy-duty too. I carried one of these for years through storms and snow. Each time, it was fully loaded with a MacBook and an assortment of notebooks, and everything managed to stay dry. The Metro is also a great choice if you need a little more storage space, as it will carry everything you need to and from the office.

Our Favorite Camera Sling

If you're looking for a camera sling to end all camera slings, take a look at Wandrd's Rogue. Inside you'll find the usual complement of zippered pockets and customizable dividers to keep your camera and lenses safe and separate. WIRED reviews editor Julian Chokkattu loves using the exterior straps to attach his tripod, making for a very portable go bag that can carry all the most important gear.

It's comfortable to wear for long periods even when it's chock full of hardware. The way the exterior zippers are laid out, you can sling it around to your front and have immediate access to the interior without having to take it off or wrestle with it. You can fit a small tablet in the rear zippered pocket, but it's worth paying for the optional Laptop Case ($59) to accommodate up to 14- or 16-inch machines.

Juliane Bergmann

Kathy Gilsinan

Julian Chokkattu

Extra Durable

Carhartt has a reputation for hard-wearing clothes and accessories, and the Crossbody Snap is no exception. The water-resistant polyester material is thick and sturdy, and the seams and pockets feel like they'll stand up to just about anything you throw at 'em. I'm always on the lookout for a small bag that can carry an iPad and a couple other accessories, and lately the one I've been reaching for has been the Crossbody Snap. It's just tall enough to fit an 11-inch iPad Pro, but it more comfortably fits the new iPad Mini. Plus, it looks nice with just about any outfit.

Best Extra-Large Messenger

The Mission Workshop Khyte is a modern take on the classic messenger bag. Built to be fully waterproof, the Khyte is designed for heavy use. The interior pockets are intuitive and expansive; every time I thought I couldn't fit more stuff into it, I found extra room and pockets. This bag is practically a hiking backpack. It can carry just about anything and stay bone dry at the same time. There's plenty of style to go with the substance too.

The exterior closures are magnetic and snap securely and easily into place, and it supports Mission Workshop's Arkiv system, so if you don't have enough pockets and pouches, you can always add more. The Khyte is not the kind of bag you throw a tablet into and carry to a café. It's the kind you bring when biking to work in a rainstorm.

Best Small Shoulder Bag

Soft and lightweight, the Greenland Pocket is an excellent everyday bag. It's big enough to carry a Nintendo Switch, a notebook, and a variety of essentials. The cotton and polyester exterior is water-resistant enough to stand up to Portland rainfall, and it's really soft—so much so that I sometimes wonder if I carry it around just to pet it. It's also a stylish option that pairs just as well with winter wear as it does with lighter spring and summer outfits. Overall, this is one of my all-time favorite small-sized shoulder bags.

For Everyday Elegance

The Pearl crossbody is a lovely, elegant shoulder bag with two zippered pockets, a central compartment, and tons of internal organization. It's honestly the one I grab on my way out the door on most days. It's small enough that it's not bulky, and it's big enough to fit an 11-inch iPad Pro in the central pocket. Plus, it looks nice. It pairs well with most business casual or casual-casual outfits without being ostentatious.

I also like the fact that the pockets are accessible from the top, and not obstructed by a flap. That way I really can just reach down and grab my lip balms, or pick up a cool rock to put in there. The interior organization is perfect for stowing cards, keys, and devices, and it keeps everything separate but easy to spot. The price is steep, but we've seen it dip below $200 before.

A Multipurpose Camera Sling

The Everyday Sling comes in a variety of sizes, but my favorite is the 10-liter version. It's technically a camera bag, but it also works as a standard small messenger. With ample pockets for organization and optional flexible dividers (to store a camera body and a lens), this bag can also comfortably fit a MacBook Air, a charger, and plenty of other accessories. Even fully loaded, the Everyday Sling maintains a slim profile that makes it easy to keep it close to your body. The strap is made from a seatbelt-like material, designed to slide easily over clothes, and it doesn’t bunch up on your shoulder as some straps do.

It's spacious enough to carry makeup, my 11-inch iPad Pro, a power bank, and loads of other random supplies. And it's comfortable to carry either slung at the side or cinched up like a backpack.

Sleek and Small

The Peak Design Field Pouch V2 excels in its role as a small everyday-carry bag for a couple of reasons. First of all, it's weatherproof and doesn't soak up water even when you're out in a rainstorm. Second, the horizontal orientation and slim profile make it a surprisingly spacious but ultra-low-profile bag to carry around. It's big enough for a smartphone, wallet, and small camera, plus it comes with Peak Design's signature seatbelt-fabric-style strap, making it easy to sling around your body.

I was a fan of Savage Industries' EDC One bag , but even I had to admit it was a little too big and bulky for me. Then the EDC Two came out. This is essentially a smaller version of the original, which makes it much comfier to wear for long periods (even when it's filled to the brim with farmer's market produce). The top opens up like an old-timey doctor's bag, revealing the entire interior, so you never have to dig around for things. 

The lining of the black version of the bag is a gorgeous high-vis orange that makes it easy to spot any small items that might otherwise get lost in the shuffle. Its generous size and tough, utilitarian design make it a great pick for makers, or for anyone who needs a hybrid toolbox and shoulder bag.

For Artists

When I first saw this bag, I was skeptical. I've always had mixed feelings about vertically oriented messengers. They have a bad habit of banging against my hip when I walk and can be tough to cinch closer to my body. Waterfield's Muzetto crossbody shares the sturdy construction of its bigger sibling, but it has fewer internal pockets and the leather doesn't have as much give, so stuffing it with bulky objects, like full-sized headphones, can be awkward. The big weighty front flap secures seamlessly (and quietly) with a magnetic closure, and it flips over the back and rests securely against your body so you can walk around with it open. That's something I never thought I'd want to do, but reaching down to pluck out a camera, a sketchbook, or my phone makes it feel like an assistant is handing me the things I need.

Because it's vertically oriented, there's much less risk of your stuff spilling out onto the sidewalk if you crouch down to take a photo. It's the perfect bag to take to a museum for an afternoon, perfectly sized for a sketchbook and pencils, and the whisper-quiet magnetic closures make it super discreet. Nobody wants to open velcro in the reverential hush of a museum.

For Traveling Light

Made of simple, humble canvas, with just three pockets and a zippered pouch, this messenger bag is as straightforward as they come. It's inexpensive and lightweight, and it'll last you a really long time. I've had one since 2006, and while the color has faded a little, there are no holes or rips. Even with my stable of more expensive bags, I often pick this one up because it's not structured, and when carrying a light load it's pretty thin and light. It's not a good choice if you need something water-resistant though, as the canvas soaks up water like a sponge. 

For Stylish Travelers

Billingham bags have something of a reputation among photographers. These slick and stylish shoulder bags are renowned for their durability, understated style, and lifetime warranties. They aren't just for cameras though—they are excellent everyday totes if you're looking for a premium bag at a premium price. The Hadley 2020, in particular, is a perfect midsize bag that can fit a 15-inch laptop with ease, along with other essentials. It features two front pockets and a water-resistant exterior so it can withstand the elements. For more camera bags, read our guide .

A Teeny-Tiny Sling

The Bellroy Sling 7L is the first hands-free sling I've absolutely fallen in love with. It's big enough to carry some essentials (keys, masks, hand sanitizer, phone, wallet, and sunglasses) with room to spare, and because of its slim and flat profile, it doesn't feel bulky, no matter how much you pack in there. It sticks close to your body and swings around to the front with ease, making it a great choice for everyday use in a world of social distancing. It's small enough to feel unobtrusive but expansive enough that you can fit everything you need. Read our Best Fanny Packs guide for more sling recommendations.

What Is a Messenger Bag?

A messenger bag … well, it carries messages. It's the modern descendant of the rectangular satchels with crossbody straps used by early letter carriers and the back-slung bags used by modern bike messengers . That doesn't mean manufacturers are all going to agree on what constitutes a messenger-style bag. I've seen the terms “convertible tote,” “satchel,” and “laptop bag” all refer to the same style of bag. For our purposes, we're using “messenger bag” and “crossbody bag” to mean a bag that has at least one strap long enough to carry it over one shoulder or across your body. Generally, these bags rest on your hip.

What sets these bags apart from slings is that they are more like backpacks with a single strap. They sit very differently on the body.

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The 16 Best Messenger Bags for Men & Women [2023]

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Things To Consider With Messenger Bags

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Messenger bags offer a comfortable and convenient way to carry laptops, folders, work files, and so much more. With the ability to sling the bag across your body, they can evenly distribute the weight of your belongings, and the close-fit design allows you to keep your gear in front of you where you can see it at all times.

Stylish, modern, and incredibly practical, messengers bags are an excellent choice for men and women on the move.

Before you invest in a messenger bag, consider the following:

Size and Capacity

Your messenger bag should be spacious enough to carry all of your gear without being so big that it weighs you down.

Most messenger bags are large enough to house up to 17-inch laptops while still being able to offer lots of additional storage space. If you are using your messenger bag for work, school, or college, you should definitely look for one that is wide enough to comfortably fit paperwork and folders.

Hot Tip: The bigger the bag is, the bulkier it will be when full. To prevent back and shoulder pain, look for a messenger bag that is just big enough to carry all of your essentials without offering loads of extra space for filling with unnecessary weight.

Material and Durability

Messenger bags are made from durable materials that are strong enough to withstand the rigors of everyday use. The most common messenger bag materials include:

• Real Leather — High-end messenger bags are often made from genuine cowhide leather, and users can enjoy soft, supple exteriors and smooth, lined interiors. Designed to offer many years of use, these bags have an upscale look and feel.
• PU Leather — Cheaper to produce and more affordable to buy, faux leather messenger bags may not be as soft or luxurious as their real hide counterparts, but they are still strong and easy to clean.
• Nylon — Super tough and resistant to rips and tears, nylon and oxford fabrics are often used in sleek-looking messenger bags that are made for men and women who want an understated look and lots of practical storage space.
• Canvas — Often used in conjunction with leather accents, canvas bags are incredibly strong but may lack the water-resistant capabilities that nylon or leather bags offer.

Compartments

Most modern-day messenger bags come complete with a padded laptop compartment to help protect your device from knocks and bumps along the way. They also feature a multitude of additional compartments and pockets to keep all of your gear neatly organized.

For easy access to your most used items, look for a messenger bag that comes with sealable front pockets so you can reach for your passport or travel ticket without having to open the whole bag. Internal zipper pockets are also a plus as they allow you to store valuable items safely without the worry of them falling out or being accessed by pickpockets as you travel.

Your messenger bag should feel comfortable when slung across your body, even when it is full. With this in mind, these bags are designed to help evenly distribute your bag’s weight and offer increased stability.

Thick adjustable straps allow you to find the length that suits your height, and extra padding on the shoulder area will prevent it from digging into your skin . The wider the strap, the more help it will offer to spread the load for a more comfortable carry all day long.

Top carry handles are also useful as they allow you to use the bag like a traditional briefcase and are invaluable when you need to lift the bag in and out of the trunk of your car or set it down in transit.

Security Features

If you are concerned about carrying your bag in crowded areas or on public transport, you may want to look for a bag that offers additional security features.

Many messenger bags offer hidden back zipper pockets that rest flat against your body , making them virtually impossible for pickpockets to reach. Internal zipper pockets are also an excellent space in which to store your wallet , cards, and cell phone if you have concerns while you are commuting.

Full-size flaps on the front of the bag are also a good deterrent for would-be thieves, and some bags even come complete with slash-proof straps and fabric.

Bottom Line: Stay reassured that your laptop will be safe in transit with a messenger bag that has a strap or even a zipper across the top of the laptop compartment to ensure that it won’t slip out when you put the bag down.

Water Resistance

If the weather looks like rain, you will want to know that your laptop and other possessions are protected for the duration of your journey. While very few messenger bags can claim to be completely waterproof, many out there offer a level of protection against rain and damp conditions.

Leather bags are naturally resistant to water, but the leather can become stiff and hard as it dries if it becomes too soaked. Synthetic materials such as nylon often include a layer of waterproof coating on the outside , and faux leather lets the water roll off without worrying about it becoming damaged along the way.

You should also consider the design and construction of the bag. Tightly joined or welded seams will stop drops of rain from getting in, and strong and sturdy zippers are also a bonus. Bags with large flap covers add an extra layer of protection for the contents of your bag.

The 8 Best Messenger Bags for Men

With enough room for your laptop, electronic devices, and other essentials, these messenger bags offer the right proportions for men on the move.

Men’s Vintage Genuine Leather Messenger Bag

Made from soft and supple superior crazy horse cowhide leather and water-resistant canvas, this messenger bag has vintage good looks and plenty of useful interior space. With a larger main compartment and plenty of extra pockets, this is a brilliant choice for the discerning gentleman.

On the inside, the padded laptop sleeve has enough room to comfortably carry a 15.6-inch laptop, and the extra-secure seal will ensure that your device stays safely tucked away. With 5 outer pockets and 4 inner pockets , this messenger bag will keep your wallet, cell phone, cash, keys, notebook, and other personal items well-organized as you go.

With an adjustable, padded shoulder strap, this bag makes for a comfortable carry, even when full, and the leather grab handle makes it easy to pick up and put down in an instant. Fully-lined and beautiful to look at, this is a vintage messenger bag for the modern-day traveler.

What We Like

• Durable and water-resistant

What We Don’t Like

• Side pockets are very narrow

CoolBELL Convertible Backpack Messenger Bag

Lightweight and easy to carry, this messenger bag offers plenty of practical storage space for your everyday essentials. Made from strong and durable oxford cloth with genuine leather accents and a waterproof polyester lining, this bag comes complete with a well-padded laptop compartment for devices measuring up to 15.6 inches.

With 4 outside pockets, you can keep all of your most essential items close at hand, and the large internal compartments are spacious enough to easily house your notebooks, work documents, and even extra clothing when traveling. Designed to offer lots of useful interior storage space, this is the perfect messenger bag for overnight stays or short trips away.

Carry this bag any way you want to with the top handle for easy grab-and-go lifting, the hidden backpack straps that can be used to carry the bag on your back, and the adjustable shoulder strap that is long enough to carry across your body to keep your belongings supersafe.

• Can be carried as a messenger bag, backpack, or briefcase
• No exterior water bottle pocket

TIMBUK2 Classic Messenger Bag

Water-resistant and incredibly durable, this laptop messenger bag has been built to last. Made from rugged 150D poly-tweed material with an easy-to-wipe TPU liner, this bag is perfect for everyday use when commuting.

The internal organizer has plenty of space to keep your laptop, pens, cell phone, and other items safe, and the slash pocket provides padded protection for your important files and documents.

With a further Napoleon-style side-entry pocket, you can reach in and grab your wallet without opening the main bag, and the internal water bottle pocket will ensure that you stay well-hydrated as you travel.

With a low-profile grab handle for easy lifting and a long, adjustable shoulder strap, this bag is designed to evenly distribute the weight of your belongings, and the length of the strap makes it easy to carry across your body.

With additional upscale features, including partially-concealed flap buckles with bottom compression straps and smart hooks, and loop placement for easy closure, this is a safe and secure messenger bag for carrying your most essential items every day.

• Easy-to-clean interior
• The shoulder strap is not detachable

RAVUO Messenger Bag for Men

This stunning satchel-style messenger bag is made from soft and durable cotton canvas that offers heavy-duty protection for your belongings, as well as excellent resistance to rain. This bag has subtle yet stylish good looks and acres of internal storage space available in a choice of stunning muted colorways.

With a padded laptop compartment that can house devices measuring up to 15.6 inches, you can use this bag for work, and the 14 extra pockets include front flap pockets for easy access to your essentials, pen sleeves, an external zipper pocket, 8 card slots, and lots of additional compartments to help you stay well-organized.

The wide and thick shoulder strap is fully adjustable and long enough to be worn across your body, while the canvas, padded top handle allows you to use the bag as a briefcase when you need to.

• 14 pockets to stay organized
• The shoulder strap can loosen over time after being adjusted

GES Tactical 17-Inch Men’s Military Laptop Messenger Bag

Made from water-resistant nylon, this sleek-looking messenger bag has reinforced seams for extra durability and SBS zippers to ensure long-lasting performance.

With a laptop pocket that comes with an anti-collision isolation pad to protect devices measuring up to 17 inches in size, this bag will keep your laptop safe from shocks and impact along the way. With a further dedicated file section and multiple accessory pockets, this bag allows you to create your own desk area while you travel .

Large deep pockets are useful for keeping water bottles , umbrellas, and other essentials close at hand, while the loops on the side pocket provide useful extra space for hanging sunglasses, tennis rackets, and so much more.

With further front pockets for cell phones, chargers , earphones, pens, and all of your other day-to-day essentials, this bag offers an incredible amount of storage space. The wide adjustable shoulder strap is easy to detach should you not need to use it, and the length allows you to wear it across your body.

Sturdy and simple in design, this tactical messenger bag is perfect for commuters, freelancers, and anyone who likes to work on the move.

• Padded compartment for a 17-inch laptop
• Zippers can be a little fragile

Modoker Messenger Bag for Men

With a slim silhouette, this discreet messenger bag has vintage styling and on-trend good looks. Perfect for school, work, or college, this simple bag offers practical storage for everyday use.

Spacious on the inside, this bag can comfortably house a 13-inch laptop while still offering more than enough space for your books, notepads, pens, wallet, and electronic devices. With a back zipper pocket that offers excellent protection from thieves , this is also a supersafe choice for use when commuting.

Made from high-quality canvas, this bag is strong and durable, and the adjustable shoulder strap lets you wear it over your shoulder like a tote bag or across your body to help distribute the weight of your belongings evenly, no matter how full the bag is.

• Has a side pocket for a water bottle
• Quite small for a messenger bag

Clifton Heritage Leather Locking Messenger Bag

Made from 100% genuine cowhide leather, this gorgeous messenger bag is designed to be durable and long-lasting. Perfect for use at work, school, or college, it has been masterfully crafted for an upscale look and feel with a patina that gets more impressive with age .

With a padded laptop compartment that has space to hold a 15.6-inch laptop, this bag also has plenty of room for your other essential items.

With a mobile phone holder pouch, you can easily reach your cell phone when it rings, and the wallet holder will keep your cash safely tucked away. The 2 small magnetic pockets on the front let you easily access your cards, tickets, and other much-needed items in transit.

The adjustable and removable should strap is made of leather and canvas to ensure ongoing durability, and the longer length makes it comfortable to carry across your body to keep your belongings close to you on your daily commute.

• Stylish and sturdy
• No top handle to grab quickly

Waterproof Waxed Canvas Messenger Bag

Made from beautiful waterproof waxed canvas and genuine leather, this expensive-looking laptop messenger bag is the perfect choice for fashionable commuters. Available in a selection of muted colors, this messenger bag features superior quality bronze hardware, and the solid and durable design has been built to last.

With a padded laptop compartment that has enough room to carry your 15-inch MacBook Pro or other 14-inch laptops , this bag is practical enough for everyday use, and the 2 inner slip pockets and further inner zip pockets offer discreet storage for your smaller items.

The 2 main compartments are divided by padded cloth to keep all of your electronics well-protected while easily offering enough room to carry papers, books, and folders.

The adjustable shoulder strap makes light work of heavy loads, and the longer length allows you to wear it over your shoulder like a tote bag or across your body. Perfect for use on our daily commute, for work, travel, school, or college, this is an awesome messenger bag for everyday use.

• Several different pockets for keeping organized
• The bottle pockets are quite small, especially with a full bag

Hot Tip: Looking for a portable bag? Check out our guides to the best daypacks , laptop backpacks , and fanny packs and waist packs .

The 8 Best Messenger Bags for Women

With designer good looks and attractive features, these messenger bags let you carry your most important items with you in style.

Kamlui Laptop Bag 15.6 Inch for Women

With fashionable good looks and practical interior storage, this eye-catching lady’s messenger back is perfect for everyday use. Made from PU leather that is water-resistant and easy to clean, this bag comes in a variety of colorways and a contrasting stripe design. With gold-tone hardware and contrasting accents, this stylish messenger bag is perfect for work, school, or college .

With a built-in, softly-padded laptop compartment that has enough room to safely house your 15.6-inch laptop, as well as a big pocket that is just the right size for your mouse or charger, this is a stylish way to carry your work gear around with you. With enough additional space for your cell phone, pens, earphones, wallet, books, and other essentials, this bag is solid and sturdy with delicate features.

The padded and adjustable shoulder strap is suitable for most heights, and you can wear it over your shoulder as a tote bag or across your body for a more secure fit.

• Can be carried as a briefcase or messenger bag
• Difficult to close with any bulky items inside

EaseGave Briefcase for Women

This stylish laptop briefcase is finely crafted from vintage purple Saffiano eco-leather and finished with a beautiful and eye-catching logo.

The padded soft foam laptop section is large enough to house a 15.6-inch laptop, and the Velcro strap will ensure that your device stays safe and secure in transit. With 3 further compartments, 2 slip pockets, and 1 zippered fastening pocket, there is plenty of room for your cell phone, wallet, keys, books, and other everyday essentials for use at work, school, or college.

Understated and incredibly chic, this bag has a coffee-colored nylon interior, and it can be carried like a briefcase using the strong and durable top handle, or over your shoulder or across the body using the fully detachable and adjustable shoulder strap.

Offering a wide range of storage spaces, the structured interior of this EaseGave briefcase has all the organizational compartments you need to keep your everyday essentials close at hand.

• Available in a range of stylish colors
• The zipper is a little fragile

OIWAS Messenger Bag for Women

Available in a choice of 4 bright colors, this fashionable crossbody bag is made from waterproof 600D material that is strong and durable enough to keep all of your gear safe. With a 17.8-liter capacity, it is spacious and capable, and the classic design will evenly distribute the weight, even when full.

On the inside, the padded laptop compartment can hold devices measuring up to 15.6 inches and will keep them safe from scratches and bumps in transit. With further multiple compartments, you can keep your cell phone, wallet, books, notepads, and work files, as well as other essentials, well-organized for work, school, or college.

The adjustable shoulder strap is well-padded to sit comfortably on your shoulder or across your body, and the reflective strip ensures that you can be seen even as the light fades.

• Waterproof to keep your gear safe
• Padding in the laptop compartment could be thicker

Vintage Canvas Satchel Messenger Bag

This unisex messenger bag is made from scratch-resistant canvas with genuine leather accents and pull tabs available in a choice of fashionable colorways. Spacious enough for all of your belongings, this bag would be suitable for both men and women.

On the inside, the bag is large enough to carry laptops up to 13 inches, as well as documents and folders . With 2 open pockets in the front, a large main compartment, and a zipper pocket, you can comfortably carry your cell phone, wallet, keys, chargers, and other accessories with you on your way to work, school, or college.

With an adjustable shoulder strap, this bag can be worn over your shoulder or across the body, and the upright zipper pocket on the front is just right for keeping your most used items like travel passes and tickets close at hand.

• Lots of pockets to locate your items quickly
• No padding on the shoulder strap

ECOSUSI Vintage Crossbody Messenger Bag

Beautiful to look at, this messenger bag offers vintage good looks and a practical interior. Made from PU leather with rugged gold hardware , this messenger bag is available in a choice of coffee, brown, or red colorways, with both being as eye-catching as each other.

On the inside, the main zipper compartment is large enough to carry your iPad, cell phone, charger, wallet, cosmetics, and other essentials.

While not quite wide enough to carry documents or folders, this case still offers lots of internal storage space. With an open pocket and further zippered pockets for your keys, cards, and other smaller items, this is an excellent messenger bag for everyday use.

With a decorative bow on the front of the bag, this beautiful piece has a strong top handle that allows you to carry it like a briefcase. It also comes complete with a PU leather shoulder strap that can be adjusted to be long enough to fit across your body.

• The shoulder strap is removable as well as being adjustable
• The material is quite stiff

ECOSUSI Women Briefcase PU Leather Laptop Bag

With a unique and attractive feminine design, this stunning vegan leather laptop bag is available in a choice of brown, red, black, and coffee colors. The oversized bow on the front offers a fashionable twist, and the bow can be detached if you need it to look more professional .

Suitable for school, college, work, and even business trips, this beautiful briefcase messenger bag has a padded laptop pocket that can comfortably carry devices measuring up to 15.6 inches. There are also 2 further small slip pockets, 1 small zipper pocket, and 2 exterior pockets hidden under the outside flap for quick access to your most-used items.

This bag comes complete with a top handle that can be used to carry the bag and a removable and adjustable shoulder strap that can be carried over your shoulder or across your body to help distribute the weight more evenly.

• Made from vegan leather
• Quite large and bulky

BAOSHA Laptop Messenger Bag

Available in a selection of bright and beautiful patterns, this messenger bag is large enough to fit a 17-inch laptop , and with a large capacity interior, it is sizable enough to use for school, work, or college.

With a padded laptop sleeve, you can slip your device in the bag with ease, and the main compartment still has plenty of space to hold your books, folders, cell phone, wallet, and other day-to-day travel essentials. With a further tablet sleeve with stud closures, 2 flap front pockets, and a hidden zipper pocket on the back of the bag, you can easily organize all of your gear.

With a detachable and adjustable webbing shoulder strap that can extend up to 50 inches to fit across the body, this bag can also be carried by the top handles and used as a briefcase or carry bag.

• Fits up to a 17-inch laptop
• The front pocket magnetic snaps can sometimes open unexpectedly

Karl Lagerfeld Paris Cara Flap Messenger Bag

This beautiful messenger bag has a slim silhouette and high-end features available in a wide range of designer colors and designs. Offering a wide zippered opening, you can easily reach your gear, and the sleek shape sits nicely against the body.

On the inside, the wipe-clean lining is of excellent quality, and the zippered pocket is large enough to keep your most valuable items neatly tucked out of sight . With a deep main compartment, you can easily carry your cell phone, wallet, cosmetics, and other essentials, and the front pockets, rear slip pocket, and further side zipper pockets offer easy access for smaller items.

With an adjustable shoulder strap, you can wear this bag like a designer tote bag or adjust it to its full length and sling it across your body. With a stunning Karl Lagerfeld logo and iconic KL designs, this is a beautiful designer messenger bag that is perfect for everyday use.

• Comes in lots of cool designs
• The strap could be sturdier to accommodate more weight

Whether you choose a discreet, slimline messenger bag for business trips and commuting or a bright and fashionable bag for school or college, these messenger bags offer all the space you need.

With padded laptop compartments, spacious pockets, and wide padded shoulder straps, messenger bags allow you to keep your most important items close to you while evenly distributing the weight of your belongings.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a messenger bag used for.

Messenger bags have a similar use to backpacks and are perfect for carrying everyday essentials and bigger items like laptops, files, and tablets.

Is a messenger bag better than a backpack?

It can be argued that backpacks are better than messenger bags as they make it easier to carry heavier loads due to the straps. On the other hand, messenger bags give you quicker access and can be more stylish.

Why is it called a messenger bag?

Messenger bags have been around for decades and were originally used by messengers, letter carriers, and couriers to carry mail.

Are messenger bags bad for you?

Messenger bags can be bad for your back and shoulders if they are too heavy as all of the weight is carried on 1 side. If you experience neck, back, or shoulder pain, consider removing items from your bag or switch to a backpack.

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About Amar Hussain

Amar is an avid traveler and tester of products. He has spent the last 13 years traveling all 7 continents and has put the products to the test on each of them. He has contributed to publications including Forbes, the Huffington Post, and more.

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Best Messenger Bags For Men To Carry Everything in 2024

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The best messenger bags for men are staples that you buy once and wear forever.

There are plenty of different types of bags out there. You got backpacks , rucksacks , cross-body bags , the list goes on. Yet there’s something so distinct and classy about a solid messenger bag. It’s a style that’s been around for half a century. Countless brands have attempted to reinvent this bag all with the goal of crowning an undisputed champion. But what really is the best bag?

Lucky for you, this list breaks down some of the best men’s messenger bag options you can find on the market today. Whether you’re looking for something to supplement your everyday carry or something to use for carry-on, you’re in the right place.

Key Takeaways

To compile this list, I scoured the market to find the best of the best for each of these categories. When looking to buy a messenger bag, it’s important to consider factors such as material, capacity, and style. Overall, I personally feel the best messenger bag for men is the Harber London Leather Messenger Bag . This bag effortlessly balances just about everything you might expect of a messenger bag, all packed with a handsome design. The Tecovas Bartlett Messenger is another great option with a unique yet classic design–perfect for getting work done.

• Buying Considerations

Why You Should Trust Us

Final verdict, best overall: harber london leather messenger bag .

Why it’s great: This Harber London bag is handcrafted in Spain which ensures some top-notch quality and craftsmanship. Within the bag, there’s plenty of space to store all of your tech necessities like a laptop, tablet, headphones, etc. This bag also forgoes the signature top flap design, instead utilizing a zip-up top for quick and easy access.

How to use it: In addition to the large compartment used for laptop storage, there are several smaller pockets designated for accessories and other tech gear.

Who is this for: This would be a great option for anyone who frequently finds themselves carrying around a bunch of tech gear–think the technological nomad. It’s also available in two different sizes to accommodate different laptop requirements.

Flaws but not dealbreakers: Aesthetically speaking, this bag is fairly plain looking as there aren’t many unique visual details to make it stand out.

Dimensions: 15.7 In x 11.4 In x 1.7 In | Material: Full-Grain Leather, 100% Cotton Twill | Colors Available: 3 | Laptop Sleeve: Yes

Best Everyday: Rains Messenger Bag

Why it’s great: The exterior of this messenger bag is made of highly water-resistant polyester which sounds about right coming from a brand called “Rains”. The rubberized buckles and central carabiner provide just the right amount of grip, even if you have wet hands. This brand also offers a 2-year warranty to ensure complete satisfaction with the product.

How to use it: This bag provides the perfect level of versatility to handle just about any endeavors you may encounter on a daily basis–no matter the weather.

Who is this for: This would be a great option for professionals and students who want a bag that incorporates modern technology to make life easier.

Flaws but not dealbreakers: There’s virtually no variety with this bag because it only comes in a single color—black. It’d be great to see this messenger bag offered in some of the other colors available from the brand like green or navy.

Dimensions: 11.8 In x 15.0 In x 3.9 In | Material: Polyester | Colors Available: 1 | Laptop Sleeve: Yes

Best Luxury: Mismo M/S Satchel

Why it’s great: This Mismo satchel is made with water-resistant army cotton canvas which is complimented by durable brass hardware. The polyester and viscose lining is supple enough to coddle all of your cargo–even a 15-inch laptop. Leather also reinforces key areas while adding to the overall luxury of this bag.

How to use it: This is a medium-sized luxury bag that can be used for everyday carry or even as a travel bag for short trips.

Who is this for: This M/S satchel is for anyone who wants a functional bag that’ll serve as a statement piece as well.

Flaws but not dealbreakers: As a luxury option, it should be no surprise this bag has a pretty hefty price tag–especially since it’s not fully made of leather. The quality you get from this bag is no doubt superb, just as long as you have the cash to afford it.

Dimensions: 14 In x 5 In x 11 In   | Material: Cotton Canvas, Leather, Brass | Colors Available: 6 | Laptop Sleeve: Yes

Best For Travel: Lundi 36-Hour Travel Bag

Why it’s great: This Lundi travel bag seamlessly combines work and travel with a split-compartment design. The first compartment features everything you’d expect from a standard messenger bag while the second compartment can fit personal items and clothing–it even opens up like a suitcase. The external zipper pocket on the side can offer easy access to your passport and boarding pass without the need to shovel through the larger main compartments.

How to use it: As the name implies, this bag is perfect for short trips, able to provide separate storage for your work gear and personal belongings.

Who is this for: This bag can serve as the perfect carry-on solution for anyone who takes multi-day trips on a consistent basis.

Flaws but not dealbreakers: There’s no doubt this bag utilizes high-quality materials, including the full leather construction, but it’s still very expensive for what it is.

Dimensions: 16.53 In x 11.81 In x 4.72 In | Material: Full-Grain Leather, Polyester-Canvas | Colors Available: 13 | Laptop Sleeve: Yes

Best Budget: Sweetbriar Vintage Messenger Bag

Why it’s great: The Sweetbriar Vintage Messenger Bag is a basic option to provide some extra storage on a budget. This bag is nice and roomy, offering several different compartments—including a zipper pocket. It also comes in nearly every hue on the color wheel to fit all kinds of style preferences.

How to use it: This bag can be used to carry various items that aren’t particularly delicate–think clothing and books. Since it’s made of flexible fabric, it could likely be packed as an overnight bag too.

Who is this for: This is a barebones option that can serve as a great entry-point for those who want to pick up their first messenger bag. It’d be an ideal choice for students who simply need a bag to store all of their supplies for class.

Flaws but not dealbreakers: This bag lacks many of the benefits you’d receive from messenger bags at a higher price point. The top flap is secured by velcro, there are no leather reinforces, and the bag itself is relatively flimsy.

Dimensions: 16 In x 10.5 In x 5 In | Material: Cotton | Colors Available: 17 | Laptop Sleeve: Yes

Best On Amazon: Newhey 15.6 Inch Waterproof Messenger Bag

Why it’s great: This Newhey messenger bag is made of waxed canvas, which is known for its water-repellent qualities. Inside is a padded interior that can protect your most delicate valuables such as a laptop, headphones, etc. Security is also a highlight of this bag, as it features two buckles that keep the top flap secured—there are several zipper compartments inside as well.

How to use it: This bag would be an excellent companion to carry any daily essentials you may have.

Who is this for: This is for anyone who wants a classic messenger bag, and many of the benefits associated with one, but at a reasonable price point.

Flaws but not dealbreakers: The zippers are the weakest link of this bag as they tend to fail after prolonged usage.

Dimensions: 15.1 In x  4.3 In x 12.2 In | Material: Waxed Canvas, Leather | Colors Available: 7 | Laptop Sleeve: Yes

Best For Work: Tecovas Bartlett Messenger

Why it’s great: The Bartlett Messenger is a classy, full leather bag that can easily fit into most work environments. This bag features many of the signature elements typically associated with a messenger bag, as well as some unique touches to keep it feeling fresh. It features tough brass hardware, a top grab handle, and exterior slip pockets on both the front and back. It also has a trolly strap on the back for easy attachment to luggage if you find yourself on a business trip.

How to use it: The top flap of this bag can be opened via the dual clasps on the front. The interior features a handful of compartments to make storage simple.

Who is this for: This is a perfect option for anyone seeking a reliable work bag that’s flexible enough for alternate uses as well.

Flaws but not dealbreakers: The cognac bovine is beautiful but, unfortunately, it’s the only option available. It’d be nice to see this bag offered in several of the other leathers Tecovas has within their product lineup.

Dimensions: 15.5 In x 3.75 In x 11.5 In | Material: Bovine Leather/Duck Cotton Canvas/Brass | Colors Available: 1 | Laptop Sleeve: Yes

Buying Considerations Men’s Messenger Bags 

Material plays a major part in the overall durability and versatility of the best messenger bag for men. The most common option you’ll find in high-quality messenger bags is full-grain leather . Leather is an excellent choice for any bag because of its inherent durability and style. That being said, leather is not a cheap material to work with, so it typically hikes up the price point. It also requires specific maintenance to ensure longevity. Canvas and other fabrics can also be found in the world of messenger bags because they’re typically more affordable. These bags offer plenty of flexibility, yet they can degrade significantly faster than their leather counterparts.

You should also consider storage space when trying to narrow down the best men’s messenger bags. Many messenger bags are limited to a single main compartment, which is divided into various sub-sections. Oftentimes, this provides just enough space to store a laptop and some other small essentials. Alternatively, some messenger bags for men incorporate exterior pouches or pockets to expand overall space. If you’re lucky, you might even find a bag with multiple main compartments for more substantial cargo. Of course, a bag’s dimensions also help significantly when determining how much it will be able to carry.

The general style of a messenger bag can also have an impact on the decision-making process. Let’s face it, a lot of people choose to pick up a messenger bag because of the “cool factor”—myself included. Messenger bags often epitomize classic styles of the past with rugged leather accents and brass hardware. If Indiana Jones can pull it off, so can you. On the flip side, there are plenty of messenger bags out there that feature sleeker, more modern designs. Ultimately, you should choose a messenger bag that will seamlessly mesh with the type of clothing you wear most often.

Ryan Jamison is a seasoned writer for FashionBeans and has delved into a myriad of style and grooming topics, offering readers in-depth reviews and insights.  He’s been writing and interested in all things that improve men’s lives for over a decade, trying out different brands and determining what’s best along the way. Ryan has a personal obsession with the best messenger bags for men, so there’s no doubt he made sure to include only the very best in this list, narrowing down dozens of options in the process.

His recent articles, such as the detailed examination of  Thursday Boots  and an extensive guide to the  best grooming kits for men , showcase his meticulous approach to evaluating products. In the Thursday Boots review, Ryan shares personal experiences with the product, discussing everything from material quality to comfort and durability, ensuring readers receive a well-rounded perspective.

To sum it all up for you, my consideration for the best messenger bag for men (if you haven’t figured it out already) is the Harber Leather Messenger Bag, which strikes a near-perfect balance between function and fashion. This bag comes in several striking colors and is even available in leather or canvas to accommodate plenty of different lifestyles. The Tecovas Bartlett Messenger is another standout option that would feel right at home in most working conditions.

Because of its functionality and versatility, the messenger bag is essentially a timeless style. While there will always be people who drone on about why these bags “aren’t cool anymore”, that’s simply their own opinion. When it comes to style advice, my rule of thumb is to block out the opinions of anyone but yourself.

Messenger bags share some similarities to duffel bags in that they are typically worn over the shoulder and lay at one’s hip. These bags can be worn with a casual outfit, like a nice button-up shirt and some chinos for example. Alternatively, certain leather messenger bags can be paired with formal and semi-formal outfits for more professional settings.

Ryan is a writer, filmmaker, and all around content creator. Over the years, he has written screenplays, short stories, and nonfiction informational pieces. Ryan is currently working to build up his YouTube channel (@ ryan-jamison ) via creative video essays that combine his love of filmmaking and writing. He also *occasionally* posts some photography on his Instagram (@ ryanjamison99 ). When away from the keyboard, Ryan loves running, hiking, reading, and he’s also a total boot nerd.

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The Best Messenger Bags for Men on Amazon, According to Hyperenthusiastic Reviewers

There are a lot of ways to carry your everyday necessities, but many feel a little too casual or technical for use in the office. If you need something that has the carrying capacity of your backpack but looks a little more boardroom than classroom, a stylish messenger bag is as good as it gets. So while we’ve written about plenty of bags before — including the best weekender bags , gym bags , and even toiletry bags — here, we’ve rounded up the best messenger bags for men, as praised by the most enthusiastic Amazon reviewers.

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Best-rated messenger bag

Well over 7,000 five-star reviews praise this Newhey messenger bag for its overall design and durability. One freelance writer calls this their “dream messenger bag” because it’s “gorgeous, durable, well-made, versatile [and] can hold everything and then some,” including their laptop, notebooks, water bottle, pens, and more. “It looks stylish, but it is also very practical,” writes another reviewer. They specifically call out that the bag has a padded laptop pocket, is secured with a zipper and buckles, and is constructed from water-resistant canvas. And a third reviewer who purchased this for their husband says that it “looks much more expensive than the $50 price” and can attest that it’s “held up well over two years.” They write, “My husband uses this bag to carry his laptop to and from work, and people stop him all the time asking about it. Honestly, if I could give this bag 10 stars, I would.”

Best-rated (less expensive) messenger bag

This Osoce bag is much smaller and much cheaper than the Newhey one, but that’s exactly why reviewers like it. It’s the “perfect size” according to a reviewer who purchased this for their husband, who previously carried his things to work in a plastic bag. “He now takes his mask, phone, phone charger, and other miscellaneous things to work” they write, noting that it has “lots of storage compartments and the fabric can be wiped down.” Another reviewer says it’s a “great high-quality product for a low price!” They like that it’s “cute and discreet” while also practical: “It fits all my stuff (phone, wallet, keys, sunglasses case, a small bottle of hand sanitizer, a ziplock full of disposable masks and a small bottle of water).” And a third reviewer was happy that it suited their “reluctant” bag-wearing husband. “Once he tried it, he LOVED it. He uses it everyday. It’s really very smart looking, and well made.”

Best messenger bag for school

This Sechunk messenger bag has more than 3,000 five star-ratings, and over 40 students and parents note that it’s spacious enough to carry plenty of school supplies. One school counselor purchased the “functional” and “cool-looking bag” for work and says it can “hold my laptop, several books, folders, and laptop cord with room to spare.” Another student who appreciates the bag’s extra pockets adds that it’s a “great-quality bag and comfortable on the shoulder, even with a lot of weight.” And a third reviewer calls this their “favorite school bag” because it’s “insanely durable because of the heavy canvas, and [it] doesn’t compromise style for functionality.” After a year of using it, they say the bag is still in “solid condition” and that they’re “still [as] in love with the bag as when I first received it.”

Best messenger bag for work

“I used to use a military-style, khaki messenger bag, but I needed something more professional to line up with my office job,” writes one five-star reviewer of this bag. “This Kenneth Cole Risky Business Messenger Bag fit the bill. It’s sleek, handy, and professional.” Dozens of other reviewers seem to agree, using the word “professional” as a descriptor. One reviewer goes so far as to call the bag a “must have for a young professional.” They write, “Now that I have graduated and have a ‘real’ job, I continue to use it and always get a ton of compliments on it!” As for its functionality, they write that its “main pocket is big enough to hold my 15” laptop, an iPad, and a few folders/papers, and the back pocket can hold a charger cord or two along with all of my pens.” And a third reviewer says it strikes a rare balance: “Need a classy upgrade to canvas or messenger bag? Trying to appear both mature but also cool and sexy? Well, this bag somehow manages these once-thought-impossible feats.”

Best (less expensive) messenger bag for work

More than 4,500 reviewers give this water resistant messenger bag five stars, and dozens say that it looks “professional.” One reviewer who bought this for a friend “couldn’t believe how nice and professional looking this bag was,” especially for the price. “This is such a good deal and even a leather bag would pale in comparison,” they write. Another reviewer who was “looking for a more professional laptop bag than my typical messenger” says this Taygeer “fits the bill very well.” They like that the “construction is durable, zippers are large and reliable, and it has a surprising amount of storage throughout. Easily fits everything I need with plenty of room to spare.” Others like that it holds up to extensive use, including a reviewer who says “the difference in quality is night and day” compared to their previous work bags. “This is rugged, has solid zippers, and no cheesy plastics. It appears much better designed and built.”

Best convertible messenger bag

Nearly 900 reviewers give this convertible Crocod bag five stars, including one who was “tired of choosing between backpacking and shoulder side bags.” The convertible feature is “super convenient” for another reviewer who also likes that the bag itself has “ample space for big laptops,” a “dedicated section for tablet storage,” and “a lot of small pockets so you will never run out of space for all your chargers, cables, and other accessories.” And a third reviewer points out that while its versatility is a plus, they “love that the straps tuck away and hide nicely when being used as a messenger bag. You honestly would not know the straps are there.”

Best messenger bag for laptops

Reviewers love that this isn’t your typical messenger or laptop bag. ”The bag looks just like the picture and feels well-constructed and durable. It’s beautiful, with just a touch of something more exotic and interesting than the average laptop bag,” writes one. Another was shocked how high-quality it is, writing, “It’s the largest one they have holds my 18 inch laptop plus plenty of room for papers and folders. This is a bag I would have expected to find in a store for at least $150, if not more in the above $200 range.” Another adds, “This messenger style leather satchel far exceeded my expectations.” He also notes that not only could it fit his 17-inch laptop, but there’s plenty of room left over: “I could fit most of my desk in here.” One teacher fully agrees this bag is large and worth the money, commenting, “In any case it is very spacious, my dinosaur of a laptop can fit comfortably in it along with all of my books and all of my paraphernalia (I carry around lots of things).”

Best (less expensive) messenger bag for laptops

More than a third of reviewers say that they use this messenger bag for their laptop. “It definitely makes carrying my laptop a much more pleasant experience,” one writes, especially since it can hold so much more than just a laptop. “It’s got two HUGE pockets (not too big) on the front, which carry all of my charging cables, power bank, AirPods Pro, extra pen/Sharpie, any dongles I might need, and honestly still has room to spare.” Many agree with this user who thinks no additional laptop sleeve is necessary. “Even if you don’t have a cover on your computer, the inside of the bag is very plush and soft so you don’t have to worry about scratches,” they write. Dozens of reviewers also point out the bags reinforced corners as another protective feature. One reviewer, whose number one criteria for a messenger bag was corner protection, describes this one as excellent. Another speaks to the sturdiness of this bag: “I feel like my ridiculously expensive computer will be protected if I were to drop it.”

Best compact messenger bag

This messenger bag is a favorite among travelers and reviewers who prefer an all-in-one, compact bag. “I travel extensively and I needed a Bible bag so I could bring my scriptures with me on trips. This one is perfect for my needs. It has so many little pockets, it seems there is a space for anything,” reviews this content shopper. Another frequent flyer comments that this bag is perfect for travel: “The rest of the bag has tons of pockets and cubbies to replace the wallet or organize other things. Easy to get to everything, including passports and IDs while on the go. Can’t speak for other uses but for a nice, compact, functional travel bag at a great price, this is a gem.” Many remark that while its size is definitely a plus, another huge selling point is the durability. “The canvas material is sturdy, and the adjustable strap is a good length for crossbody use. Plus, it feels like it will last a long time,” as one puts it. Many feel it’s relatively complex because there are so many compartments, but as one sums up, “Overall, the bag does have way too many pockets, but that is a great thing for travelers like me.”

Best everyday messenger bag

Many mention that while this won’t be your carry-all bag because it is on the smaller size, it’s ideal for everyday use: “This is a beautiful, well-constructed bag. Heavy weight canvas. Solid and carefully placed stitches. Perfect size for a daily-use man-bag. Kind of very attractive retro styling. Should last for years unless you drag it behind your car,” raves one. Another agrees, noting the size is “perfect” because it’s “not too big and not too small.” He continues, “The canvas is nice and soft, not stiff like so many. It could be used daily as a purse or man-bag. It’s not large enough for a laptop which I don’t haul around anyway.” One disagrees that this bag is too small to carry everything, explaining, “This is a great bag to have if you’re the type of person who finds themselves toting around a number of items on a daily basis and need some extra room. Comfortable to carry, even with a decent amount of weight and has just the right amount of sag and a floppy design to be a up-to-the-task every day bag.”

Best durable messenger bag

Durable is the word dozens of five-star reviewers use to describe this Carhartt messenger bag. Happy customers include a construction project manager who “expects it to last for years” and says that on top of being well-made and water-resistant, it’s the “perfect size” for their “tablet, notebook, and a few tools, and it has a front pocket with easy access for my tape measure.” Another reviewer says it “pays for itself just from the durability alone,” since it’s “made out of a nice, thick canvas — exactly what you’d expect from Carhartt.” And a third reviewer, who “basically lives out of my truck and work bag,” similarly says the Carhartt is “made tough. Tough material, tough straps and hooks, tough zippers. It can take abuse.” And they add that it’s “big enough to hold spare clothing and all things I need while out working.”

Best vintage-looking messenger bag for men

Dozens of reviewers report getting compliments on this messenger bag, with many impressed by how good looking it is. “It’s possibly one of the best looking messenger bags I have come across,” writes one reviewer. Another says it’s “the combination of letter straps, with the brass hardware, and treated canvas” that give it “the appearance of a vintage messenger bag.” And a third reviewer says it looks so nice, you’ll be a “young fashion icon.” But the good reviews don’t just focus on this bag’s looks. “It has two compartments, two large pockets outside, two smaller ones inside, one back pocket, two side pockets for bottle/umbrella etc,” writers one customer, outlining all the ways in which it’s useful, too. It’s also waterproof, which many appreciate.

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Best Messenger Bags of 2024

Messenger bags hit peak popularity in the ‘90s, but the easy-to-carry and practical design has carried them as staple bags well into this century. Originally designed for couriers, all messenger bags have a similar style with a cross-body strap, but they vary in size, material, layout and compartments, and waterproof capabilities. When considering your options, think about what you’re looking for in a bag and how you plan to use it. We’ve highlighted the best messenger bags to find the right one to take with you.

Table of Contents

• Best Messenger Bags
• Things To Consider When Buying
• How We Chose

TimBuk2 Classic Messenger Bag  »

Comes in four size options

Water bottle and tech storage pockets

Wide selection of fun or practical color choices

Weatherproof exterior

Material may be too casual for some offices

Hand-wash only

The TimBuk2 Classic Messenger Bag is a functional bag to carry all of life’s essentials. It’s sold in four sizes (Extra-small, Small, Medium, and Large) with widths ranging from 10.6 to 15.7 to suit the needs of various users. All four options feature multiple pockets to keep your supplies – including tech gear – organized. The extra-small model can hold an 11.5-inch tablet while the large model can accommodate a laptop up to 17 inches.

The Eco Cordura recycled polyester material used to make this bag is weatherproof to protect items against the elements. For further protection, TimBuk2 added a waterproof 70D TPU moisture-resistant liner. This adjustable bag features an aircraft-grade aluminum buckle that slides to help you find the right fit. You can also switch between right- and left-hand carry options depending on your preferences. The small, medium, and large sizes offer a crossbody-stabilization strap to help keep the bag in place. With nine different color options, find a look that matches your style.

Mactso Vintage Canvas Satchel Messenger Bag  »

Inexpensive

Made of canvas

Main compartment zips closed

Five color options

No laptop sleeve

Shoulder strap isn’t padded

The Mactso Vintage Canvas Satchel Messenger Bag is available for less than $40, making it a more affordable option. This is a smaller messenger bag that can hold laptops or tablets up to 13.3 inches, as well as A4-size files or other documents. The bag is made from waterproof canvas with leather accents, including the zipper and strap connectors. It’s available in five different colors, including neutrals like black, coffee, and gray, as well as more colorful picks like blue or army Green.

With its various pockets, this messenger bag helps keep your phone, keys, and other items within easy reach. It has a large zippered main compartment, a smaller security-zippered pocket, two open front pockets, and smaller interior pockets.

Buffalo Jackson Roosevelt Leather Messenger Bag  »

Full-grain water buffalo leather construction gives it a refined look

Several interior pockets for holding smaller items

Dedicated compartment for laptops

Bring your laptop and important documents to and from the office with the Buffalo Jackson Roosevelt Leather Messenger Bag. Its full-grain water buffalo leather construction makes this an attractive and professional-looking pick. Additionally, the bag is outfitted with stylish antique brass hardware, including a quick-opening exterior clasp. Buffalo Jackson took care when constructing this bag, using rivets with thick nylon stitching. The high-quality construction combined with the full-grain leather material means that this bag should last for years to come.

The messenger bag offers a dedicated laptop sleeve that can accommodate computers with screens up to 15 inches (when measured diagonally). There are also several other smaller interior pockets for holding cell phones, cables, pens, and business cards. The padded shoulder strap extends from 41.5 inches to 58.5 inches to accommodate users of varying heights and carrying preferences.

Nomatic Messenger Bag  »

Luggage passthrough and TSA-Ready laptop sleeve

Customizable insert panels

Strap buckles rotate for enhanced comfort

Converts to a briefcase

Not very lightweight

Only comes in one color

Bring the Nomatic Messenger Bag along on your next trip. It offers several features that make it a suitable match for travelers. First, the bag’s polyester and nylon construction is durable and water-resistant, so you won’t need to worry if you get caught in a sudden rain shower. It also features a TSA-Ready laptop sleeve to make going through airport security a bit easier.

The Nomatic Messenger Bag is designed to be comfortable to carry. The magnetic strap buckles rotate 360 degrees, which means users can adjust the angle of the bag and how it hits them to prevent strain or discomfort. If desired, you can even take the straps off and carry the bag as a briefcase using the handle — a nice perk for business travelers. The full-perimeter zipper ensures that all of your items are safely contained while the interchangeable insert panels help you keep them neatly organized and easy to access. Other key features of this messenger bag include the luggage pass-through, the cord pass-through holes for charging your devices, and the spring-loaded shoulder strap buckle for seamless adjustments.

Chrome Industries Berlin Messenger  »

Generous 47-liter capacity

Harness system to distribute weight

Easy-to-use seatbelt buckle

Doesn’t have a laptop sleeve

If you need to carry a lot with you, then the Chrome Industries Berlin Messenger Bag is your best bet. The bag offers an impressive 47-liter capacity and is 25 inches wide and 11 inches deep. It can accommodate up to a 17-inch laptop (though you’ll want to purchase a separate laptop sleeve since it doesn’t come with one), while still offering lots of space for files, clothing, gear, and other essentials. To help keep you stable and ensure the bag’s weight is more evenly distributed, Chrome Industries added a four-point harness system to this messenger bag. Additionally, the strap features a foam padded panel to alleviate the strain placed on your shoulder.

It’s easy to put the bag on and to take it off thanks to its innovative seatbelt buckle. The bag is made from durable 1050D nylon with a waterproof tarp liner to protect your belongings. There are multiple pockets and compartments to keep everything organized and ensure you’re able to find what you’re looking for quickly.

WANDRD Rogue 9L Sling  »

Expandable tripod pocket

Removable internal dividers

Can hold up to a 16-inch laptop

Customizable wear style

Tripod pocket may not hold some larger tripods

Some reviewers say it could use a bit more padding

The WANDRD Rogue 9L Sling is generously sized to hold more than just your camera. In fact, it’s large enough to carry a 16-inch laptop. To allow you to customize the layout based on how you plan to use it, this model features removable dividers. You can also easily bring your tripod to photoshoots with the expandable tripod pocket. Or, if you’re not shooting with a tripod, you could use this compartment to hold a water bottle .

The Rogue 9L sling is made from weather-resistant nylon to keep your camera and other belongings dry. It has an air mesh back panel to keep you cool and comfortable when using the bag. This model also offers a five-point adjustment system and flexible carrying options. In addition to wearing it as a messenger bag, you can also wear it as a sling bag or around your waist. WANDRF offers this bag in seven different color options.

Portland Leather Almost Perfect Modern Messenger Bag  »

Made from full-grain leather

Clean lines; doesn’t look bulky

Magnetic closure

Four color choices

Too small for some laptops

The Portland Leather Almost Perfect Modern Messenger Bag is a fashionable option. Made from U.S.-sourced, oil-tanned full-grain leather, this bag comes in four different finish options to help you coordinate with your wardrobe and preferences. Choose from pebbled black, nutmeg, dakota, or cold brew. It offers clean lines and a sophisticated look, making it an optimal choice to bring with you whether you’re heading to the office or out for an adventure.

While this piece doesn't have as many compartments as some of the other bags on our list, the interior does have a few sections to keep belongings organized. After you grab what you need from the bag, secure the flap using the hidden magnetic closure. This model features a detachable crossbody strap. If you prefer, you can remove the strap and carry the bag as a briefcase using the top leather handle.

The Bottom Line

Messenger bags can be used for everything from work to travel, so the right one for you depends on your specific needs. Patrick Burch, owner of Cave + Post Trading Co., says, “While features depend on how you plan to use your bag, you’ll always want to be sure your messenger bag is durable and has the right design to meet your needs.”

We selected the TimBuk2 Classic Messenger Bag as our top pick. We like that it comes in several size and color options, offers multiple pockets and compartments to keep everything organized, and has a weatherproof exterior and waterproof liner to protect belongings.

Things To Consider When Buying Messenger Bags

Size and Capacity: You’ll want to think about the ideal size for a messenger bag before you get too deep into your search. Messenger bags come in a range of sizes, from compact options that will only hold a few items, to much larger bags capable of carrying lots of supplies and essentials. The right size depends on how you plan to use the messenger bag, what you need to carry, and how much weight you can hoist.

Start by laying everything out that you will regularly carry in your bag to help you visualize how much space you’ll need. If you plan on using the bag to bring your laptop with you to the office or other locations, be sure to check the dimensions to ensure it will fit. While you want to have space to carry everything you need, you shouldn’t necessarily get the largest bag you find. If the bag is larger than you need, it may be too bulky to carry comfortably.

Materials: If you have started looking for a messenger bag, then you’ve likely noticed that they are available in a wide range of materials. The best material for you will vary based on your budget, how you plan to use the bag, and your personal preference.

Zac Moyle of The Real Leather Company and Brooke Mullen of Sapahn both prefer leather messenger bags. Moyle says, “We see top-grain leather as the best material. It's super long-lasting as it uses the grain layer of the animal hide. But it's sanded to give a uniform pattern – ideal for the office." Mullen explains, “A leather messenger bag embodies timeless elegance and durability, ensuring a strong first impression that communicates quality and sophistication wherever you go.”

However, Burch has a different opinion. He says, “We like twill or waxed canvas, which make the bag versatile and durable. A twill or waxed canvas bag can be brought to the office, to a meeting, on a trip, or on an adventure. They’re extremely durable, get better with age, and make a statement."

Thinking about whether you will primarily be using the messenger bag for business or travel purposes can help you make the best decision for your specific situation. In addition to genuine leather, twill, and waxed canvas, messenger bags may also be made from nylon or polyester.

Weight and Portability: As you’re comparing different messenger bags, you should take note of the weight of each item and think about how portable it will be. This can be an even more important factor to consider if you’ll be walking long distances carrying the bag.

The design of the strap can directly impact how comfortable the bag will be to carry. First, consider whether there is any padding on the strap to keep it from digging into your shoulder. Wider straps do a better job of distributing weight, so they make it easier to carry heavier bags for longer distances. Some manufacturers design their bags with stabilizer straps, which prevent the bag from swinging around too much as you walk. These straps either go under your arm or wrap across your hips. They can also be a great asset for those who will be wearing a messenger bag while riding a bike.

Compartments and Organization: Messenger bags generally have several pockets and compartments to help users keep their belongings organized. However, each bag will vary in the exact number, size, and layout of these compartments, which can make some a better fit for you than others. You’ll want to consider what you’ll be packing in your messenger bag to help you determine the ideal number of compartments and how big you’ll need each of them to be.

If you’re planning to carry a laptop in the messenger bag you purchase, then you might want to look for one that offers a dedicated compartment – or even a padded sleeve – to protect your device and keep it separated from other items in the bag. You could also consider purchasing a separate padded sleeve for your laptop, but doing so will cost extra, and you’ll still need to ensure that the sleeve and your laptop will fit in the bag.

Durability and Weather Resistance: Think about how and where you plan to use your bag to help guide you in selecting one that will be durable enough for your needs. Leather, nylon, and waxed canvas are two durable materials that can be used to make a messenger bag. Bags made from these materials are likely to hold up well to repeated use, though waxed canvas or nylon may be the better fit if the bag will be regularly exposed to water.

The material of the strap directly impacts the overall durability of the bag. The last thing you want is for the strap to break as you are trying to carry the bag. Leather and nylon are both strong and durable choices. Thicker straps are also likely to last longer than thinner options.

Style and Design: Choose a messenger bag that matches your personal style and design preferences. Consider whether you’re looking for something with a slimmer profile or if there are certain materials or colors that you prefer.

There are different types of messenger bags from taller and narrower options, to oversized models, to those that are designed to hold cameras. The ideal style depends on how you plan on using the bag. The perfect messenger bag for business meetings will look very different from what you’d want to use exploring a new city while traveling.

Care: The care that a messenger bag will need can vary significantly depending on the materials and manufacturer recommendations. Leather messenger bags, for example, may require more care and maintenance than bags made from other materials. While some bags may be machine-washable, leather will need to be wiped down by hand to remove dust and debris. It’ll also require conditioning to keep the leather soft and prevent it from splitting or cracking.

Before making a purchase, check the manufacturer’s care instructions. Choose a product that matches the time and level of care you’ll be able to dedicate to its maintenance.

How We Chose the Best Messenger Bags

We considered a range of factors and consulted several resources to help us finalize our list of the best messenger bags. Zac Moyle, the founder of The Real Leather Company , which sells leather bags and accessories; Patrick Burch, the owner of menswear store Cave + Post Trading Co. ; and Brooke Mullen, founder and designer of the ethical fashion brand Sapahn , all offered their expert advice on some of the top features to look for when choosing a messenger bag. We also factored customer ratings and information shared by professional reviewers when compiling our list.

WHY SHOULD YOU TRUST US?

The author of this piece, Deirdre Mundorf, has more than five years of experience writing reviews about products related to the home and office. Mundorf regularly contributes to U.S. News 360 Reviews (including the best label makers and best desk mats ) and has written for several other online publications, including Bob Vila, USA Today, and House Digest, among others.

Laptop bags have dedicated sections to hold a computer and other office supplies. They’re designed to protect a laptop and offer padding to accomplish this goal. Many laptop bags also offer a more professional look, as they are often brought to and from the office or on business trips. According to Mullen, “Messenger bags typically have a more casual, relaxed appearance, often featuring a single strap worn across the body."

However, as Burch points out, “things have morphed over time and the lines have been blurred." Some messenger bags are also designed with features that allow them to carry and protect a laptop.

The size of your laptop will impact how large of a messenger bag you’ll need. Moyle says, “We think 16 inches is the perfect size to fit most 15.3-inch laptops. This is a great balance between having enough room for your laptop, but still being snug enough to easily carry around." However, if you have a larger laptop, you will need to search for a bigger messenger bag.

While some messenger bags are waterproof, not all models are. If you're looking for a bag that will repel water and keep your belongings dry, pay close attention to the materials and overall construction. Waxed canvas, nylon, and polyester bags are generally water-resistant and can protect the contents of the bag should you get caught in a rain shower. Zippers can also impact how waterproof a messenger bag will be. Look for zippers designed with a proactive shield or other modifications designed to help them prevent water from penetrating the bag.

About Our Team

Deirdre Mundorf

Contributor

Marlo Jappen Porto

U.S. News 360 Reviews takes an unbiased approach to our recommendations. When you use our links to buy products, we may earn a commission but that in no way affects our editorial independence.

Our editors carefully select every product we recommend. We may earn a commission from these links. Learn more

The 13 Best Men’s Messenger Bags To Carry Daily

By: Tim Huber Published: Jun 28, 2023

A modern evolution of the Roman Loculus, messenger bags are extremely versatile carry solutions that are incredibly conducive to daily commuting , whether that’s done by train, car, bike, or on foot. And with messenger bags currently being more popular than ever before, now seemed the perfect time to take a deep dive into the segment, delving into what defines a messenger bag and what to consider when shopping for one, along with a curated list of our picks for the best men’s messenger bags for everyday use and commuting. 

The Best Men’s Messenger Bags

Best Affordable/Entry-Level Pick

TIMBUK2 Classic Messenger Bag

Best All-Weather/Waterproof Pick

Arc’Teryx Granville 10 Courier Bag

Best Commuter Pick

Chrome Industries BLCKCHRM 22X Citizen Messenger Bag

Best Minimalist Pick

DSPTCH Slingpack

Best Camera Bag/Photographer’s Pick

Peak Design Everyday Messenger

Best Ultra-Tough Pick

Mission Workshop Khyte VX

What exactly is a messenger bag.

A subcategory of crossbody vessels, messenger bags typically sport a rectangular silhouette and just enough storage space to accommodate one’s daily essentials for the office or workshop. The shape and size of these bags makes them perfect for carrying a laptop, tablets, notebooks, files, and other documents, while still having more than enough room to stash a myriad of pens, keys, an EDC knife , a water bottle, and other odds and ends. As a result, messenger bags lend themselves extremely well to commuting and work use, though it doesn’t end there. Because messenger bags are typically designed with daily commuting in mind, they tend to be outfitted with robust degrees of weatherproofing — an area owed to both heavily water-resistant shell constructions and messenger bags’ storm flaps.

 Another defining trait of messenger bags is how they’re worn. Unlike a traditional shoulder bag — like a briefcase — messenger bags are crossbody-style items that are worn like a sling, though are designed to lay flat on the wearer’s back. Another advantage of messenger bags is the way that these carry solutions hug the wearer’s body. Often utilizing a main shoulder strap coupled with a stabilizer strap, these bags remain planted against the wearer’s back without jostling around during movement — a factor that also makes messenger bags ideal for commuting via bicycle or motorcycle. In fact, most modern messenger bags were originally designed to be used and carried by bike messengers — hence the name. 

Urban Carry Solution Qualities

What To Look For When Shopping For A New Messenger Bag

Messenger bags are a fairly unique style of crossbody carry solution , and while they do share a great many similarities with other types of packs, they do possess a handful of finer points that one should be privy to when shopping for one. With this in mind, we’ll briefly be touching on the seven most crucial areas to take into account when in the market for a new messenger bag. 

Video Guide: The Best Messenger Bags

If you’d like to dive a bit deeper into the subject matter, be sure to check out our 4K video review of the best messenger bags .

Shell Construction: As the material that comprises the majority of the bag itself, a messenger bag’s shell construction is of utmost importance when reviewing a messenger bag — or really any type of bag, backpack, or piece of luggage . Typically highly resistant to water and abrasions, most modern messenger bag shell constructions consist of rugged high-denier nylons, polys, and sailcloths, though there are also models crafted from everything from Tarpaulin to heavy-duty waxed canvas to leather. On top of the type of material and its weight and/or denier, it’s also crucial to check whether a messenger bag’s shell has been further fortified through the use of a special treatment or coating — such as a DWR — that hugely bolsters a bag’s weather resistance. 

Secondary Materials: While there’s no denying that a bag’s shell is probably the single most important factor in determining its overall quality, durability, and performance, there are some secondary constructions that can also play a major role in pushing the needle. This includes the material used to produce a bag’s liner as well as any reinforcements found on the bottom/base of the bag, as this latter area is often fortified and beefed up to offer better protection from the elements and abrasions. 

Hardware: Alongside a messenger bag’s primary and secondary construction, another area that will play a role in a bag’s overall price and performance is the hardware that it features — including areas such as a bag’s zippers and buckles. It’s also worth paying extra attention to a messenger bags shoulder strap (and any hardware said shoulder strap is outfitted with). 

Weather Protection: Depending on the region in which you reside, protection from the elements may be of extreme importance — especially if living somewhere like the Pacific Northwest which sees ample precipitation throughout the year. In order to protect a bag from the elements, these carry solutions are often bestowed with shell constructions that are largely impervious to water — and often further fortified via TPU, PU, or DWR coatings/treatments — as well as waterproof zipper tracks and storm flaps. 

Size & Volume: The size and dimensions of a bag will ultimately determine how much gear and equipment one can carry. Typically measured in liters, most messenger bags offer somewhere between one and two-dozen liters of internal real estate — though the reality is that 15 liters will typically be enough to accommodate the vast majority of commuters’ daily work essentials. The larger messenger bags that boast 20 or more liters of storage allow one to stash more gear, and is a great option for those that also want to use their messenger bag as a workout bag for pre or post-work gym sessions. What’s more, it’s also worth noting that some messenger bags employ a compressible/expandable setup that can be opened up to provide extra space when needed. 

Style: Though they tend to sport the same basic shape and offer the same basic utility, messenger bags can massively vary in terms of their aesthetic design. On top of often being sold in a plethora of color options, messenger bags are also crafted in a myriad of different styles, with some utilizing more vintage-inspired outward appearances while others sport more modern looks. 

Fitment & Support: While all messenger bags come equipped with a shoulder strap, some are designed with a much larger focus on fitment, support, and stability — areas that are bolstered through the use of a stabilizer strap. As such, if you plan on using a messenger bag while commuting on two wheels, it’s imperative to review the type of strap and carry setup that a given messenger bag employs, as this will massively impact how it performs — as well as how conducive it is to use on a motorcycle or bike and how much or little it will move around on your back while in motion. 

Selection & Testing Process

How & Why We Got Hands-On With These Particular Messenger Bags

As usual, we kicked off our search for the best available messenger bags by first reviewing the vast array of options on the market before narrowing this expansive segment down to a markedly more concise shortlist based on each model’s materials, harness system or shoulder strap setup, organizational amenities, durability, and weatherproofing . Using these key principles to guide our selections, we then proceeded to get hands-on with the larger list of messenger bags that we expected to stand as the best of the best.

While a bag’s spec sheets and list of features can give a decent sense of what the user experience will be like, the only way to really get acquainted with a messenger bag — or really any carry solution for that matter — is to put them to the test first-hand, putting these items through their paces under a variety of real-world conditions. This field testing would ultimately uncover how these bags performed, the level of fit and finish each model offered, and how their features and amenities actually function in practice. Gleaning this info would allow us to narrow our larger list of models into our final list of the best of the best. 

Optimized Commuter Carrying

The Best Messenger Bags Currently On The Market

Now that you’re up to speed on exactly what one is and what to look for when shopping for one, let’s dive into our picks for the finest messenger bags that money can buy.

• Minimalistic yet rugged messenger bag
• Crafted around CORDURA shell w/ TPU liner
• Offers great value
• Shoulder strap has stabilizer & is super easy to adjust
• Equipped w/ Vista loop for attaching bike lights
• Produced in 11 colors & in 4 sizes
• Small laptop compartment
• Interior water bottle pocket wastes internal storage space

Best Affordable/Entry-Level Pick: Produced in more than 10 different color options and in four different sizes, the TIMBUK2 Classic Messenger Bag is an accessibly-priced yet capable pack that offers 14 liters of storage space and comes backed by a generous lifetime warranty .

Weighing in at only 1.7lbs, this messenger bag features a removable crossbody strap with a coordinating strap pad, an easy-to-clean TPU liner, and Vista loops for attaching bike lights. Crafted around a CORDURA nylon shell that’s been derived entirely from recycled materials, TIMBUK2’s Classic Messenger Bag also features a laptop compartment that can accommodate notebooks as large as 13”. 

Volume: 14 Liters Shell Material: CORDURA Nylon Liner Material: TPU Laptop Compartment: Yes

Arc’Teryx Granville 10 Courier Bag

• Crafted from ArcTeryx’s beloved laminated AC² fabric
• Made using ultra-weatherproof seam-taped construction
• Has padded adjustable shoulder strap & laminated padded back panel
• Main flap secured via custom one-handed release buckles
• Also offered in carry-all, shoulder bag, & backpack versions
• Can be difficult to find in stock
• Would benefit from crossbody stabilizer strap

Best All-Weather/Waterproof Pick: Impervious to just about any weather or conditions short of a typhoon, the Arc’Teryx Granville 10 Courier Bag is a compact messenger bag with a minimalistic aesthetic design that affords just 10 liters of real estate. Sold in a trio of color options, the Granville 10 Courier Bag comes outfitted with a laminated padded back panel, a dedicated laptop compartment that fits models of up to 12” in diameter, and a main compartment that’s secured via dual custom Arc’teryx one-handed release buckles.

Additionally, not only is the bag made from Arc’s beloved laminated AC² fabric — a thoroughly top-shelf construction that’s found on Arc’teryx’s higher-end Veilance sub-brand products — but it’s also been manufactured using an ultra-weatherproof seam-taped construction.

Volume: 10 Liters Shell Material: AC² Fabric Liner Material: N/A Laptop Compartment: Yes

• Legendary bag that’s widely regarded as the original modern messenger bag
• Fantastic for two-wheeled commuting
• Backed by Chrome Industries’ lifetime warranty
• Weather-resistant w/ floating TPE bucket liner
• Offered in huge range of color options
• Equipped w/ Chrome’s signature seatbelt buckle (which has an integrated bottle opener)
• Shoulder strap orientation can force bag’s contents to bottom corner

Best Commuter Pick: Originally designed and developed for bicycle messengers working in the company’s hometown of San Francisco, the Chrome Industries Citizen Messenger Bag is widely recognized as the original messenger bag, and as such is seen as a benchmark that all other models are judged against.

Boasting 24 liters of storage space, the Citizen Messenger Bag sports reflective compression straps, and an ergonomic stabilizer strap-equipped shoulder strap that’s outfitted with one of Chrome’s signature quick-release vintage seatbelt-style buckles — which also features an integrated bottle opener. Known as the BLCKCHRM 22X, this particular version of the bag features a liner and shell made 22X nylon — an ultra-rugged and fully-waterproof structured sailcloth-style material .

Volume: 24 Liters Shell Material: 22X Nylon Liner Material: 22oz 1,000D TPE Tarp Laptop Compartment: Yes

DSPTCH SLINGPACK 

• Crafted around ultra-rugged DWR-coated ballistic-grade 1,680D nylon shell
• Lined w/ DWR-coated 410D nylon packcloth
• Offers excellent weatherproofing
• Made in America & backed by a lifetime warranty
• Features padded 15″ laptop sleeve & hidden zippered pocket
• Body-side of exterior has 3D air mesh back panel
• Would benefit from all-alloy hardware

Best Minimalist Pick: Made in America and backed by a lifetime warranty, the DSPTCH Slingpack is an ultra-hardwearing crossbody bag with an understated, minimalist aesthetic design. Tipping the scales at just under 2lbs while offering 15 liters of storage space, the Slingpack is pieced together around a DWR-coated ballistic-grade 1,680-denier nylon shell.

Trimmed in a DWR-coated 410-denier nylon packcloth liner, the interior of the bag boasts a padded 15” laptop sleeve, a hidden zip pocket, a dedicated water bottle pocket, a bevy of zippered mesh pockets, and an onboard cable management system. Lastly, this messenger bag is also offered with standard 1.5” quick-release buckles, or with 1.5” FIDLOCK items.

Volume: 15 Liters Shell Material: DWR-Coated 1,680D Ballistic Nylon Liner Material: DWR-Coated 410D Nylon Packcloth Laptop Compartment: Yes

• Award-winning messenger beg designed specifically for photographers
• 400D nylon canvas shell is DWR impregnated & 2x PU-coated
• Shoulder strap is heavily padded & has quick-adjust buckle
• Offers one-hand access thanks to patented MagLatch hardware
• Features modular internal organizer setup
• Uses UltraZips for all external zippers
• Shell material gathers/collects dusts & dirt easily
• Some features lost on non-photographers
• Expensive price

Best Camera Bag/Photographer’s Pick: Crafted around a double poly-coated DWR-impregnated 400-denier nylon canvas shell mated to a high-visibility light gray nylon liner and a 900-denier waterproof bottom base — all three of which are derived entirely from recycled post-consumer materials — the Peak Design Everyday Messenger is an updated version of an already award-winning bag that features Peak Design’s clever expansion system that allows the 13-liter vessel to be opened up to provide an additional 3 liters of storage space.

Manufactured in two color choices with either leather or HYPALON accents, the Everyday Messenger also features a tablet and laptop compartment that can fit a 14” MacBook Pro, super-durable UltraZips zippers, and all anodized aluminum and glass-reinforced nylon hardware. Perfect for photographers , this bag is also sold with a pair of included cord hook external carry straps, an anchor link key tether, and a set of FlexFold dividers that allow the messenger’s main cavity to be custom configured based on the user’s needs that day.

Volume: 13 Liters (or 16 Liters Expanded) Shell Material: DWR-Impregnated & Double Poly-Coated 400D Nylon Canvas Liner Material: High-Vis Nylon Laptop Compartment: Yes

• Shell made fdual layers of ultra-rugged yet lightweight X-Pac VX-21 sailcloth
• Made by hand in small batches in America
• Offers insane levels of waterproofing
• Equipped w/ magnetic Fidlock V-Buckles and YKK Aquaquard zippers
• Features padded laptop compartment & tricot-lined smartphone pocket
• Very expensive price
• Mission Workshop’s Deluxe Messenger Strap is a $50 upgrade that’s sold seperately

Best Ultra-Tough Pick: Offering unparalleled durability in a commuter-focused package, the Mission Workshop Khyte VX is a thoroughly top-shelf messenger bag that’s made in America by hand in small batches to ensure exacting attention to detail, stellar quality control, and a superb fit and finish. Also offered in a more affordable yet still thoroughly rugged 500-denier High-Tenacity Nylon variant, this messenger bag’s main flap is also secured via a pair of magnetic-coupling FIDLOCK V-buckles.

Offering two dozen liters of internal real estate, the Khyte VX features a super rugged X-Pac VX21 shell that’s been outfitted with YKK AquaGuard zippers, a trio of Arkiv rails for attaching Mission Workshop Arkiv accessories, a zippered tricot-lined smartphone pocket, a slew of internal organizers and pockets, and a dedicated laptop compartment that’s accessible from the exterior of the bag.

Volume: 24 Liters Shell Material: X-Pac VX21 Liner Material: VX Nylon & Tricot Laptop Compartment: Yes

Worthwhile Runners-Up

Additional Messenger Bag Options

CARHARRT D89 MESSENGER BAG

Offering the level of durability that one would expect from the famed American workwear brand , the Carharrt D89 Messenger Bag is a capable yet affordable pick that’s constructed around a 600-denier poly ripstop shell that’s been reinforced via a 1,200-denier poly base and Carhartt’s Rain Defender DWR coating. Weighing in at 1.2lbs, the messenger bag also sports a dedicated laptop sleeve, a front flap with a zipper-secured pocket, and a side-release buckle closure paired with an adjustable shoulder strap.

Volume: Aprox. 20 Liters Shell Material: Rain Defender-Coated 600D Polyester Liner Material: N/A Laptop Compartment: Yes

AER COMMUTER BAG

The San Francisco brand’s second-generation take on a purpose-built commuter bag, the Aer Commuter Bag is a 10.2-liter vessel that’s crafted from ultra-rugged coated 1,680-denier CORDURA and features a lightly strutted design. Sold with a padded and removable shoulder strap, the Commuter Bag comes loaded with YKK zippers, Duraflex hardware, a slew of interior organization pockets for everyday essentials, a quick-access top pocket for storing small valuables, a high-visibility gray nylon liner, an interior water bottle pocket, rear webbing straps that double as a luggage handle passthrough, and a padded laptop pocket that fits notebooks of up to 15″ — including Apple’s latest MacBook Pro . 

Volume: 10.2 Liters Shell Material: Coated 1,680D CORDURA Ballistic Nylon Liner Material: High-Vis Nylon Laptop Compartment: Yes

TOM BIHN THE MAKER’S BAG 

Crafted in America from bluesign-certified 525-denier High-Tenacity 2×2 ballistic nylon, the Tom Bihn The Maker’s Bag is a modern briefcase , messenger bag, and field bag hybrid that features 13 liters of interior storage space and a removable shoulder strap. Sold in a huge variety of color options, this compact and versatile bag also features #5 and #8 YKK racquet-coil zips with plastic sliders, five O-rings, and a bluesign and OEKO-TEX-certified 200-denier Halcyon/nylon ripstop liner. What’s more, this bag also features a sleeve that can fit a laptop, and while it isn’t padded, it was designed to accommodate a padded laptop sleeve such as Tom Bihn’s own Cache model.

Volume: 13 Liters Shell Material: 525D HT 2×2 Ballistic Nylon or 400D Halcyon & 420D Nylon Ripstop Liner Material: 210D HT 2×2 Ballistic Nylon or 200D Halcyon & Nylon Ripstop Laptop Compartment: Yes

FILSON DRY MESSENGER BAG

A thoroughly rugged and fully-waterproof item made by an iconic American heritage brand, the Filson Dry Messenger Bag features an 840-denier nylon tarpaulin shell that’s pieced together using radio-frequency welding. Sold with a removable, adjustable shoulder strap, this waterproof messenger bag also features a storm flap-protected cinching roll-top for even more robust protection from the elements, a generously-sized main compartment supplemented via numerous interior and exterior pockets, and a super rugged nylon grab handle and webbing.

Volume: 25 Liters Shell Material: TPU-Coated 840D Nylon Tarpaulin Liner Material: 840D Nylon Tarpaulin Laptop Compartment: No

CODE OF BELL X-TOTE

Capable of being carried by hand, worn over the shoulder, or across the body, the Code of Bell X-TOTE (pronounced “Cross Tote”) is a thoroughly modern take on a three-way messenger bag that’s equal parts rugged in versatile. The bag is equipped with 19 liters of storage space, though an expandable design allows it to be stretched to a whopping 35 liters. Constructed around an X-Pac VX21 shell mated to a high-visibility orange CORDURA liner, the X-TOTE is absolutely brimming with features including a magnetic snap-button-equipped rear sleeve pocket, an expandable water bottle pocket, a snap-secured side slip pocket, an RFID-protected zippered pocket, an elastic sleeve pocket, a key hook strap, soft-lined dual laptop and tablet compartments, three slip pockets, a large sleeve pocket, a draw cord-equipped pair of pockets, two pen slots, length adjustable handle straps, an exterior D-ring, a storable 2” shoulder strap, and a padded back-panel with a hidden zippered pocket that can double as a luggage pass-through. This messenger bag is also sold with a pair of detachable compression straps and eight Annex clips that allow it to be attached to CoB’s ANNEX series.

Volume: 19 Liters (or 35 Liters Expanded) Shell Material: X-Pac VX21 Liner Material: CORDURA Laptop Compartment: Yes

DEFY Recon Mashup 2.0

Offering 15 liters of storage space, the DEFY Recon Mashup 2.0 X-Pac is another immensely hardwearing, feature-laden messenger bag that’s crafted around either a DWR-coated X-Pac VX21 sailcloth or mil-spec water-resistant 1,050-denier ballistic nylon shell. Weighing in at 3lbs, the bag is lined with a high-visibility 500-denier water-resistant MIL-SPEC CORDURA or a bright orange waterproof 200-denier liner made from recycled materials. The interior of the bag boasts a 15” laptop compartment that’s fortified via closed-cell foam and adjustable side pockets. Meanwhile, the exterior of the bag has been bestowed with 1″ MIL-SPEC polyester MOLLE webbing, YKK AquaGuard zippers set in double-headed zipper pockets, a D-ring-equipped stabilizer strap, a military gun clip key hook, and a main flap that’s held down via a pair of COBRA Quick Release 2″ AustriAlpin buckles. Because they’re produced in small limited run batches, these bags feature excellent build quality and attention to detail, though they can also be difficult to purchase in between drops.

Volume:  15 Liters Shell Material:  DWR-Coated X-Pac VX21 or Mil-Spec 1,050D Nylon Liner Material:  High-Vis Recycled 200D or 500D CORDURA Laptop Compartment:  Yes

WP STANDARD THE MERIDIAN MESSENGER BAG 

Sold in chocolate, tan, and desert black color options and offered with an optional custom monogram, the WP STANDARD The Meridian Messenger Bag is a vintage-inspired, classically-styled interpretation of a messenger bag that features a full-grain leather shell. Also backed by a lifetime warranty, this leather construction carry solution packs a padded laptop compartment that can fit notebooks of up to 15”, a single exterior access pocket, solid brass hardware, and a genuine pigskin lining. Paired with a padded adjustable leather shoulder strap, this messenger bag’s leather shell will also form a unique patina over time with regular use. 

Volume: Aprox. 15 Liters Shell Material: Full-Grain Leather Liner Material: Pigskin Leather Laptop Compartment: Yes

The Best Sling Bags You Can Buy

Perhaps a messenger bag is just a bit too big for your daily carry needs? Then you might want to dive into our guide to the best sling bags for EDC.

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The 25 Best Travel Bags for Every Kind of Trip

It's all about the right luggage.

Whether it’s a two-day business trip to Boston or a boys’ weekend in Miami, there are a lot of different ways your bag can support you. Along with handy features, looks play a part, too; you should be proud of the bag you are toting along. Get yourself that snazzy weekender with hidden pockets and a built-in cooling compartment. Treat yourself to that sleek Rimowa roller you’ve been eyeing since last year. Splurge on that monogrammed duffel to replace the one your investment bank gave you when you signed on. Don’t go on another trip without your new bag, and take some action now.

Best Travel Duffle Bag

Herschel supply co. novel duffel.

Most Versatile Travel Bag

Longchamp le pliage energy.

Best Hard Shell Carry-On Travel Bag

Rimowa cabin s carry-on suitcase.

Best Travel Backpack

Away the everywhere zip backpack.

Best Lightweight Travel Bag

Métier vagabond duffel.

Best Soft-Shell Carry-On Travel Bag

Samsonite pro travel softside expandable carry-on luggage.

Best Travel Garment Bag

Tumi garment bag tri-fold carry-on.

Best Garment Duffel

Halfday the garment duffel.

Best Neoprene Travel Bag

Dagne dover landon carryall bag.

Best Luxury Duffel

Lucchese cosimo garment duffel.

Our favorite luggage brands make it easy to elevate your travel style . If you need help narrowing down your choices, we have our 25 favorites that our editors have tested and reviewed. Out with the old, in with a new travel bag.

When it comes to quick trips that last a day or two, a duffel is what you need. And Herschel’s Novel bag is, in so many words, the best bang for your buck. Not only is it incredibly durable and spacious enough for several fits (there’s also a separate compartment for your shoes), but it’s also less than $100. That’s what we call a win-win.

Drawing its inspiration from origami, Longchamp’s convertible travel bag is one of the most versatile out there. Wear it as a backpack or carry it around as a weekender, this bag is going to get you from point A to point B with ease. It’s sporty and practical and effortlessly in fashion.

From Karl Lagerfeld to David Fincher to Martha Stewart, all the high rollers can be seen toting this suitcase. It’s got distinctive grooves and an ergonomic design, and it just screams class. Plus, the TSA-approved locks are keeping your belongings extra secure.

It’s also Esquire approved and worthy of an investment.

For train travel, bus voyages ( ooof, we feel your pain ), or even a trip involving a connecting flight, there’s nothing like a good backpack to keep you hands-free and moving at a quick pace. Made of water-resistant nylon, Away’s backpack is a durable choice with padded shoulder straps and a laptop pocket.

Surprisingly lightweight, Métier’s duffel is a luxe option for frequent travelers. It’s thoughtfully designed with specific places for toiletries, sunglasses, a laptop, and the rest of your valuables. A secret card slot in the exterior pocket makes for easier travel at the airport.

In the luggage realm, there are very few that hold a candle to Samsonite. For more than a century (yes, that long), the brand has been churning out travel accessories, always offering quality styles for the day. It doesn’t get bogged down by its history. This soft-shell spinner, for example, features wireless charging pockets and a compartment for toiletries, and it’s made of 100 percent ballistic nylon. It’s also less than $250, which makes is a virtual steal.

Business executives know the importance of a garment bag. When you just hopped off the plane and are running late to that meeting, never stress trying to find a steamer again. TUMI is saving you from wrinkle embarrassment, keeping you put together everywhere and anytime.

We love our garment bags in duffel form. They are practical for traveling with suits or other formal clothes, but you can also use them for quick casual trips. Need more convincing? Check out our endorsement of this one.

In a flexible neoprene, Dagne Dover's carryall is one of the lightest duffels out there. It's got a laptop sleeve, and it also comes with a shoe bag and a dust bag. It also makes for a great gym bag, if you want something that's multipurpose.

We love this duffel so much, it was even one of the travel products our editors can't live without . Converting from a garment sleeve to a duffel bag, its versatility meets a luxurious style for a bag you will have for decades.

July Carry All Weekender Plus

Much like it's name denotes, this truly is a carry-all at its 50L capacity. A large padded pocket fits your laptop, and hidden pockets with magnetic closures keep your smaller belongings tucked away safely. If you are going somewhere for the long-haul, it also easily attaches onto your luggage.

Paravel Aviator Grand Suitcase

Paravel is new-ish to the luggage game, but in just a short time it is succeeding in the competitive market by focusing entirely on sustainability. The brand's collection is not only beautifully designed, but they are also made of recycled plastic water bottles. It also plants trees through Eden Reforestation Projects to offset the carbon emissions it produces via shipping.

Meisterstück Meisterstück Document Case

From the finest writing instruments to regal timepieces, Montblanc offers the kind of items beloved by jet-setters, C-suite executives, and anyone else of that sort. Naturally, this means that its briefcase is one of the best around, and will surely induce envy from the rest of the folks in first class.

Zero Halliburton Large Travel Case

When it comes to luxury, you can't ignore Zero Halliburton. This label is, after all, the maker of the iconic damage-resistant aluminum briefcases, so rest assured that its large spinner will stay looking good while its be tossed and turned from the check-in booth to baggage claim.

Victorinox Spectra 3.0 Frequent Flyer Carry-On

This Swiss brand makes luggage that lasts. Constructed in a high performance recycled polycarbonate, this suitcase is durable and eco-conscious. It expands by 20 percent and has multiple compartments for smart storage. We also love this piece from Victorinox because you can personalize it for no added cost.

Coofay Travel Backpack

Now you can pack for a weekend trip in a backpack. There's a laptop compartment, separate shoe storage, and a USB charging port. Travel compactly and with rest assured that everything you need it right on your back.

Lululemon Command the Day Duffel Bag

Aptly named, this bag is going to be your 24/7 savior. A water-repellent fabric protects against spills and weather. You can stay organized with the allocated pockets for shoes, laptop, and gear.

Yeti Crossroads Duffel Bag

You know Yeti for its coolers and bottles, but you're about to love it for its luggage. A water and abrasion-resistant exterior coupled with reinforced stitching makes this one of the most durable duffels on the market.

Mark & Graham 2-in-1 Garment Bag

This bag is literally a transformer. Going from garment bag to duffel, it helps to protect your clothing with its folding design. The smart silhouette even leaves room for two pairs of shoes to store at the side.

Mack Weldon Atlas Duffle

This reinforced canvas duffle will pass any test you put it through—from the gym to the plane. It has multiple pockets, one that's designated for shoes and the other for drinks and snacks ( remember to throw those out before you get to TSA ), and a slip-resistant bottom.

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The 15 Best Messenger Bags for Men on a Mission

By Cameron LeBlanc

Cameron LeBlanc

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Without loads of manilla folders traveling from business to business, today’s bike messengers specialize in bigger items like bottles of wine, high-end light bulbs , and materials that have to be printed (i.e. business cards) — anything that doesn’t require a van to transport. And thus today, messenger bags have grown along with the cargo that needs transporting. The pros are generally using backpacks or just bigger bags, some even with two straps that the messengers of the industry’s peak in the pre-internet era wouldn’t have considered. 

The Best Messenger Bags for Men At a Glance

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Jory Wallace, the founding owner of Seattle Messenger Cooperative , personally relies on a local company, Dank Bags, a purveyor of simple bags made to order by a veteran messenger. His is made of Cordura, a synthetic material that appears frequently among the best messenger bags. 

Andrew Young is the general manager of Breakaway Courier Systems who started as a bike messenger in New York City in 1985. He’s a bit more old school, a loyalist of de Martini’s classic single-strap canvas bike messenger bag which he uses for everything from grocery shopping to traveling internationally. Fellow New Yorker Kevin Bolger of Cycle Hawk , a bike messenger since 1992, helped design a newer, larger two-strap bag with longtime bagmaker Manhattan Portage that’s better suited to the bulkier loads today’s messengers carry.

So while they depart in their specific preferences, each made it clear that a true bike messenger bag is tough, spacious, and comfortable enough to wear for hours on end.

The ethos of this 40-year-old NYC-based brand is “New York tough,” and this bag meets that standard. It’s made of Cordura, the aforementioned heavy-duty synthetic fabric that can also be found in workwear, motorcycle apparel , and military gear. It’s pretty simple, featuring one exterior zippered pocket, two interior zippered pockets, and an open pocket on the back. The shoulder strap is adjustable and sewn directly to the body of the bag. The flap stays down thanks to hook-and-loop strips on the underside, but there are also hard plastic buckles that provide more security on the go. Bolger says that this classic silhouette is an “easier bag to manage while you’re out and about. You don’t have to take it off your back to access and you can just slide it around in front of you.” And along with its high build quality and ease of use, this bag is one you might find on a real-life bike messenger, meaning that if you’re looking to capture that specific cachet of a bygone era, this is the bag.

Made For: People with very specific needs. Venerated Bay Area bag brand Timbuk2 lets its customers choose from twenty different fabrics, three different trims, and plenty of options for interior and exterior pockets depending on their needs. Coolest Feature: The crossbody strap can be placed specifically so that when it’s on your right shoulder the buckle is easy to adjust with your left hand. Lefties, rejoice!

Why It Stands Out: The Chrome Citizen Messenger Bag’s distinct Griffin logo and user-friendly seatbelt fastener are well-known hallmarks that are easy to spot from a mile away. The latter also makes it easy to take off and remove this bag without having to maneuver it over your head, something that feels like a godsend when you’re sore after a long day of work. Coolest Feature: It’s built to keep your stuff safe. Reflective compression straps keep cargo in place even if the bag isn’t fully stuffed while the shoulder strap comes equipped with a stabilizer strap that connects the front. This mechanism keeps the bag on your back and prevents it from shifting while riding.

Why It Stands Out: Sex appeal. There’s something Jonesian (as in Indiana Jones) about this leather messenger bag, with its rich leather befitting a college professor and the gradual patina it collects befitting an international adventurer. It’s a bag that’s just nice to be seen with. Coolest Feature: The coolest feature of this leather messenger bag might be the absence of features, i.e. it’s the perfect minimalist bag. Otherwise, it’s the magnetic closure that’s easy to snap shut without even looking at it.

Made For: Recreational fishermen who want a hands-free way to carry their gear. But don’t worry: this ten-liter sling works equally well for anyone who needs a compact single-strap bag, even if they won’t use the miniature fly-tying surface that flips down from the front panel. Why It Stands Out: While this sling bag might be a big departure from the classic shape, this Patagonia messenger bag retains many of those advantages in a package that appeals to light travelers.

ROI: For less than $100, this is a bag tough enough to bear the Carhartt name. It comes with YKK zippers, triple-needle stitching, and Cordura coated with durable water-repellent —  features that combine to make a bag that’s meaner than more expensive options. Coolest Feature: This bag comes with Carhartt’s Hook-N-Haul system, a series of sturdy loops that are exactly as far apart as the retractable hooks on a slew of other Carhartt bags, from can coolers to hip packs. So while it works great as a standalone bag, that it’s part of this ecosystem means it’s also expandable to meet your future needs. Read More: The Carhartt Legacy Backpack Is the New Go-To Accessory for Men

Made For: Those who don’t go anywhere without a laptop. This Tumi briefcase has dedicated laptop and tablet compartments to keep electronics secured and protected until they’re needed. It’s a slimmer silhouette than a classic laptop messenger bag, but the adjustable single-strap design means it works well for cycling. Coolest Feature: Tumi Tracer , a proprietary recovery program that helps reunite customers with lost or stolen Tumi bags. It’s a great backup in case the battery in your AirTag dies at the worst possible second.

Why It Stands Out: Peak Design created this bag in collaboration with a professional photographer, and it’s a safe bet that if it can keep fragile photo gear safe it can keep whatever else is inside it safe too, especially with the customizable FlexFold dividers to ensure the storage space fits the cargo. Coolest Feature: The MagLatch system of four magnetic latches on the outside of the bag which allow the magnetic lock on the flap to sit snugly against the cargo no matter how much is being carried on a particular day.

ROI: With three ways to carry (held with briefcase-style straps, on your back with two, or as a crossbody), this bag from the beloved Colorado-based Topo Designs is as versatile as bags get. The more conservative colorways make it look more businesslike while those inspired by natural materials (clay and olive green) create a sportier outdoor look. Made For: Guys who can’t commit. But the Global Briefcase is also perfect for weekend trips, overnight camping trips, and other occasions when a bit more room is needed than a daily commuter would.

Coolest Feature: Bolger is skeptical that any messenger bag can be truly weatherproof, but the roll-top closure and liberal use of Cordura add up to IP64 protection, officially safe from “water spray from any direction.” In other words, don’t submerge it but don’t worry about getting caught in a rain shower either. Made For: People who don’t want their bag to make them sore while wearing it for extended periods of time. This bag has a foam back, heavily padded pockets, and a sternum strap to ensure a comfortable fit.

Hot Take: This is the bag that Bolger helped design with Manhattan Portage. He uses its much larger volume to service his biggest clients: a specialty bulb retailer and a liquor store with lots of customers who want single bottles delivered. It’s a big bag, in other words, but not so big that it looks clunky or awkward when it’s on. Why It Stands Out: The reflective coating and neon tape give this thing the feel of a professional-quality bike messenger bag even from afar. Pairs nicely with the upturned brim of a cycling cap.

Why It Stands Out: Waxed canvas is a favorite rugged material of the upper classes — remember all the Barbour coats on the deer-hunting episode of “The Crown?” Carrying this messenger bag, made of waxed canvas in a striking shade of gray, lends some of that royal refinement to a decidedly contemporary design. Coolest Feature: The rubberized bottom, in addition to being fun to say, means you don’t have to worry about where you set this bag down. SImilarly, the bag that Wallace uses combines rubber with the more heavy-duty Cordura — a messenger material match made in heaven.

Coolest Feature: Pockets galore. There are dual pockets on the exterior, padded laptop and tablet sleeves, water bottle holders, a phone pocket, places for writing utensils, an exterior document (or e-reader) pocket, and even a raised mesh glasses pocket. ROI: With so many specific spaces for specific items, rummaging for small stuff that falls to the very bottom of the bag becomes a thing of the past. And if time is money, that means this bag can save some cash. Read More: The Bellroy Note Sleeve Might Seem Gimmicky, But Its Features Are Actually Great

Why It Stands Out: A pro messenger wouldn’t ever use this bag — they might even call you a hipster poseur if you rode by with this bag on your back. No offense to them, but who really cares? The high-quality Italian suede, thick zippers, and metal hardware mean this handsome bag will last a long time, and for those ready to make the investment in a more refined messenger bag, this one is hard to beat. Coolest Feature: Remove the shoulder strap and this bag instantly looks less like a high-end take on a working-class bag and more like a particularly handsome briefcase that would feel at home in the overhead compartment of the first-class cabin.

Made For: Those who accept no substitutes. While Frank de Martini is no longer with us, the company that bears his name continues to make the messenger bag he designed out of both classic duck canvas and a nylon material similar to the Cordura. And they’re made to order with some customization options, lessening the need to compromise in order to get the cachet of an original. Hot Take: Messenger bags are functional items first and foremost, but they’re also part of a rich tradition. As bike messengers become a rarer sight in cities, a de Martini messenger bag is a physical reminder of the important role they played before the internet changed everything.

Frequently Asked Questions About Men’s Messenger Bags

Are messenger bags good for carrying laptops.

Many modern messenger bags come with a built-in padded sleeve for laptops and/or tablets. Unless it’s a massive gaming laptop, most notebooks should fit without issue.

Are messenger bags good carry-on bags?

Bolger and Young, two old-school New York City bike messengers, both spoke enthusiastically of using their bags as carry-ons , including on international trips. The less hardcore may want to have a separate bag they bring on the plane, although there is something to be said for unpacking stuff at the hotel and using the same bag as you explore wherever you’re traveling. It comes down to personal preference, but using a messenger bag as a travel bag will only work for most people on shorter trips while traveling light.

How do you wear a messenger bag?

Classic single-strap messenger bags are generally worn over the shoulder of your non-dominant arm while the double-straps that are increasingly popular among real messengers nowadays are basically backpacks. Function aside, consider how dressed up you’ll need your messenger bag to feel when you use it.  If you’re bringing it into an office with a business formal dress code, the best messenger bag would use premium materials in conservative colors. If you’ll use it in more informal settings feel free to go crazy with out-there materials, neon colorways, and maybe even a sewn-on patch or five will fit your needs.

Do you need to ride a bike to own a messenger bag?

Nope, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t hop on a bike and let the wind flow through your hair whenever the opportunity presents itself.

You Should Also Check Out:

• The Best Men’s Tote Bags for Work, for Play, and for Carrying Life On the Go
• The Best Leather Briefcases Add a Retro Cool and Sophistication To Your Work Attire
• The Best Sneaker Bags Help Protect Your Shoes When You Travel

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The Best Men’s and Women's Messenger Bags To Carry Your Stuff Everywhere

Shopping Writer at HuffPost

In the vast realm of carry accessories , there are travel bags , handbags and even stylish diaper bags . But if you’re headed back to the office this year and are looking to make your commute a little easier, a quality messenger bag is the perfect thing to take along. (And if you’re still working from home and planning to go on vacation soon, a messenger bag can make for an excellent carry-on .)

This classic bag is known by its crossbody style and a large front flap that keeps belongings secure while you’re moving. Whether you prefer one made of premium leather or a water-resistant fabric, there’s a messenger bag for every activity, style preference and weather condition.

Below, we rounded up seven messenger bags for men and women that reviewers just can’t get enough of while commuting to work and traveling.

HuffPost may receive a share from purchases made via links on this page. Every item is independently selected by the HuffPost Shopping team. Prices and availability are subject to change.

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17 Best Messenger Bags for Everyday Carry

The best messenger bags for travel will rely on a lot of factors. No matter where you’re going, how you’ll get there, or the climate, this list has you covered.

So, you’re in the market for a new messenger bag. Maybe you’re new to the style, are looking for a bag for a specific purpose, or want to replace your trusty messenger that finally broke. Regardless of how you got here, we’re ready to help you choose your next one!

Before we dive in, we must go over a few things, primarily how your use case will determine the type of bag that will work best for you. If you commute with the bag on a bicycle, by public transit, or on foot, you’ll want something that does well in inclement weather. If you are using it for business, you probably need something with solid internal organization that looks professional. If you’re rough on your gear, you will want something that utilizes thick and durable materials.

There are a million reasons why you’d want to find the best messenger bags for you, so with these features to consider in mind, let’s dive into the list!

• Aer Commuter Brief 2
• Peak Design Everyday Messenger 13L (V2)
• Mystery Ranch 3 Way Briefcase Expandable
• TOM BIHN Cadet
• Osprey Arcane Brief
• Aer Pro Brief
• TOM BIHN Side Hustle
• Timbuk2 Closer Laptop Briefcase
• Boundary Supply Rennen Shoulder Bag
• Agency Aspect Hybrid Messenger
• tomtoc Explorer-H52 Messenger Bag
• Chrome Industries Buran III Messenger Bag
• Billingham Hadley Pro Camera Bag
• Tenba DNA 16 Slim Messenger Bag
• ONA Brixton
• Timbuk2 Lightweight Flight Messenger Bag
• FREITAG F41 HAWAII FIVE-O

If you’ve been looking for the best messenger bags for a while and know Pack Hacker, you probably knew this one was coming–we really dig Aer’s sleek designs, and the Aer Commuter Brief 2 is no different. It has multiple carry options, Aer’s trademark thoughtful organization to keep your gear segmented, and utilizes durable materials (1680D CORDURA® Ballistic nylon) that keep water at bay and offer you peace of mind on more rugged trips. If you have other Aer gear, it’ll fit into that ecosystem and match stylistically, which is an added bonus. If you want to take your organization skills to the next level, there’s enough space for a tech pouch , toiletry bag , and other organizers here, too; however, the bag’s wholesale interior segmentation will do the job for many travelers.

The shoulder strap’s padding isn’t adjustable, affecting how different body styles wear this pack. We dig the inclusion of an internal water bottle pocket; however, it can’t accommodate larger bottles, so leave your 32-ounce Nalgene at home. Although we like the snap fasteners on the handles to keep things organized, they slow down access to the main compartment and can be fiddly if you’re in a rush. However, that’s more nitpicky versus being an actual issue you should worry about.

Although this is a unisex pack, this is one of the best messenger bags for men because of its styling. That said, it’ll impress no matter what your style is!

• You can carry it in multiple ways
• The materials are durable and water-resistant
• The shoulder strap padding isn’t moveable
• Handle snaps slow down access to the main area

If you’re looking for the best messenger bag with unique, forward-thinking features, look no further than the second iteration of Peak Design’s Everyday Messenger 13L. The internal organization is sleek and polished but can be modified to meet your needs depending on the trip. You can use that organization to hold a camera system, your everyday carry items, or for work with a laptop. Although it might not be the best at any of the above use cases, it does better than most bags that try to do more than one thing, which is rad.

If you have experience with Peak Design, you might have a love-hate relationship with the FlexFold Dividers they use on many of their packs. They’re easy to use and helpful for organization; however, the bag we’ve tested has already started showing signs of wear. They still work well, and the issue is purely cosmetic. The rigidity of the pack’s materials (100% recycled 400D nylon) can be hard to get used to, especially if you’re used to using a canvas messenger bag. Still, the added durability and water resistance are no joke. This thing will keep your gear safe!

• The internal organization is customizable
• It can be used as a camera, everyday carry, or laptop bag
• The dividers show signs of wear quickly
• It’s hard to get used to how rigid the pack is

We know what you might be questioning: Mystery Ranch makes a messenger bag? Where am I supposed to take it, the forest? They do make one, and you can take it wherever you want to!

The front compartment has the Rip Zip style opening that we’ve come to expect from Mystery Ranch. We were skeptical about how it would transition into use on a messenger bag; however, considering you can use this pack three ways, it does well. In typical Mystery Ranch fashion, the materials and hardware here are top dogs. You’ve probably heard the saying, “Don’t mess with Texas” before, right? In reality, it should be, “Don’t mess with 500D CORDURA® Nylon,” because this stuff is scary durable!

The three carry modes are crossbody messenger bag style, backpack mode, and classic briefcase carry. All three work well and don’t get in the way of the other methods, which we dig. Even considering how much Mystery Ranch packed into this pack, it’s still a fairly small messenger bag!

We had issues fitting larger 15” laptops inside the computer compartment, which will be an issue for those with bigger models. The design feels tactical, which might not work for your next business meeting. However, we think it looks excellent, and because of its thoughtful organization and durable materials, it is one of the best messenger bags on the market.

• The Rip Zip pocket is well-integrated
• All of the materials are very durable and haven’t shown significant wear over weeks of use
• Hard to fit larger laptops inside
• Not the most professional-looking messenger

TOM BIHN is one of the most customizable and modular brands on the market; their materials are durable, and their organization is typically thoughtful, which is an excellent combo. Most of their bags are available in multiple colorways and fabric styles; the TOM BIHN Cadet is no different.

We opted for the 525D Ballistic nylon model because of its durability, which is top-notch. If you’re bringing tech accessories, this is one of the best messenger bags around because it has internal organization specifically designed to carry your electronics. Plus, if you plan to carry this thing all day long, we’ve found that it’s comfortable on your shoulder or in briefcase mode, which is a perk.

To get the most out of this pack, extra goodies from TOM BIHN are helpful but not included. This is an excellent standalone pack; however, you'll want to make it modular to get the most out of it. There’s no false bottom for your laptop, which isn’t the end of the world but not ideal if you’re concerned about extra protection for your tech.

• Stellar internal organization for tech
• It’s comfortable to carry
• It doesn’t have a false bottom
• TOM BIHN modular gear is not included, which is an additional cost on top of the bag

Osprey Arcane Brief, we had to do a double-take to determine the brand that made it. Seriously, this is from Osprey? Don’t get it twisted, we love other packs that we’ve tested from the brand in the past, but the sleek, subdued look of this crossbody messenger bag isn’t a style we’re used to seeing. The exterior recycled 500D polyester packcloth has a DWR coating, which protects your gear, too. It looks excellent, but how does it function?

You can wear the Arcane Brief crossbody, on one shoulder, or briefcase style. All three methods work well, and you can quickly switch between them. The internal organization helps guide certain gear into place but leaves a fair amount of space for you to work with using packing cubes or other organizers. However, compared to this pack's footprint, it feels like there should be more room to work with inside.

Because of the 20-liter capacity, it can get slightly uncomfortable when jam-packed. The laptop compartment doesn’t have a false bottom, which is a big no-no for some travelers, but it can be remedied with a laptop case. This eats up more space, though.

If you already own Osprey gear and are looking to match it or are looking for something sleek, this might be the best messenger bag for you!

• It has an intuitive organizational system
• The shoulder strap is very comfortable
• When fully packed, it isn’t the most comfortable
• The laptop compartment doesn’t have a false bottom

We know what you might be thinking—this is a briefcase, not a small messenger bag, right? Well, the line might be more blurred than you think. Although the Aer Pro Brief is designed more like a briefcase, it carries more like a messenger, making it a worthy inclusion on this list.

On the outside, bluesign® approved 840D CORDURA® re/cor recycled nylon protects your gear from the elements and gives the pack a professional look. Inside, Aer’s trademark thoughtful organization ensures all your equipment has a home and is safe for the ride. In addition to the main compartment, a front pocket has an independent capacity, so you can stow extra items here without taking away space from the pack’s capacity.

If you like to get down and dirty with the nitty gritty of packing, this might not be the best messenger bag for you. If you fill all the pockets, there isn’t much room for other gear. However, this negates the need for as many organizers, which we dig. The side pocket can only handle tiny bottles, which feels like a bummer, but we think its inclusion is still positive.

If you’re looking for a more business-casual look that works just as well on vacation as it does in the boardroom, this might be the best messenger bag for you.

• The front compartment has ample space for gear
• The strap makes for a comfortable carry
• You can only fit small bottles inside
• There isn’t much storage available when all the pockets are in use

If customizability and modularity are the names of your game, look no further than the TOM BIHN Side Hustle for your next small messenger bag. You can choose between different materials from TOM BIHN, customize it with other gear from the brand (or anything that’s generally modular), and it is available in numerous colorway options, from those that are loud and vibrant to those that are sleek and muted.

This is more of a sling-sized messenger bag, so don’t expect to get your laptop inside here. However, regardless of your destination, you can fit a solid amount of gear inside. Plus, the durable materials ensure that your gear makes it there in one piece. We opted for the bluesign® certified High-Tenacity 2×2 Ballistic nylon and haven’t looked back. It still looks nearly new after a few weeks of rigorous testing.

The interior organization doesn’t feel as well integrated as other TOM BIHN packs we’ve tested. It isn’t bad; however, it feels more tailored to a smaller pack that they supersized to fit this larger bag. There isn’t a ton of padding on the back panel (which also lacks aeration), which will be a deal breaker for some travelers who prioritize extra comfort and breathability. However, for the most part, we’ve found this thing comfortable to carry.

Despite the heritage look that we’ve come to expect from TOM BIHN, we feel that this is one of the best messenger bags for women and men who want to ensure that every piece of their modern everyday carry gear has a home inside their pack.

• It’s customizable and modular friendly
• The materials are durable and come in multiple colorways
• The organization feels like that of a smaller sling
• No padding or aeration on the strap can affect comfort

Well, hear us out (again). The Timbuk2 Closer Laptop Briefcase looks, carries, and feels like a messenger bag, so why shouldn’t we include it? We think you’ll be happy that we did!

Although this is a small messenger bag, there are a lot of features here. It has a luggage pass-through to help you at the airport, extra hook and loop fasteners on the front to secure the flap, and a stabilizer strap to ensure the bag stays put when the going gets rough. Not bad for such a small pack, huh?

The water bottle pocket can’t handle larger bottles, which is a bummer. The shoulder strap padding slides easily, which is ideal for getting it into the right place; however, it often slides out of that spot once you start moving. However, you can pin it down if this bothers you enough.

The exterior material is weather-resistant nylon, which is durable and protective. Even if it has briefcase in the name, aren’t you glad we included this small messenger bag?

• It has a waist strap to make the carry more comfortable with heavy loads
• The flap is secure thanks to extra hook and loop fasteners
• You can’t fit large water bottles in the pocket
• The shoulder strap padding moves out of place easily

Boundary Supply has created some of the most unique packs we’ve tested here at Pack Hacker, and the Rennen Shoulder Bag is no different. The luggage pass-through sneakily transitions into an additional pocket, the internal organization and exterior features enable modularity with other Boundary Supply gear, and the RE-3 external fabric is extraordinarily durable and 100% recycled. What’s not to love about that?

Because the exterior is 600D fabric, you don’t have to worry about your gear getting bumped and knocked around as much—this stuff is strong and water-resistant. The exterior is sleek, too, which is a bonus. You can attach gear onto the bottom of the front straps, which is handy for yoga or beach lovers. If you love both, you’ll have to choose one or the other, or get a foldable yoga mat that fits in your bag !

Accessing the main compartment feels slower than it needs to be, which won’t work for travelers who like to have their gear in an instant. However, for most users, this won’t be an issue. The fabric, albeit durable, tends to attract dust and hair, so pet owners might think twice before purchasing this bag (or about whether they still have a lint roller lying around).

Despite those issues, the durable materials, thoughtful internal organization, and recycled fabric make this one of the best messenger bags around!

• The back panel works as a luggage pass-through or a pocket for extra space and functionality
• All of the external fabric is 100% recycled
• Accessing the main compartment can be tedious
• Pet hair and dust are friendly with the external materials

This might be the most unique crossbody messenger bag on this list. Why? Materials, materials, materials! The primary pack fabric is 500D CORDURA® Nylon, which is durable and water-resistant. That isn’t special, though—we see that a lot. The accent is the special part! It’s crafted from Saffiano-style leather that is highly abrasion-resistant and looks sleek and unique.

The pack has a stabilizer strap, which will help you wrangle the large footprint of this 13-liter pack. Because of its bigger size, you can fit longer items, which might be essential for your next trip if you want to bring a collapsible fishing pole or collect novelty rulers.

Some users might find the strap adjustors challenging to wrangle; however, we got used to them fairly quickly in use. The shape of the pack doesn’t utilize space efficiently, so you won’t be able to stack packing cubes inside like Legos. That said, the quirks of this pack make it more unique than others on this list.

• The stabilizer strap is handy for heavy loads
• You can stow long, flat items inside easily
• The footprint of the pack is large
• There is some unusable space because of acute corners

If you’re on a budget but are still looking for one of the best messenger bags on the market, look no further than the tomtoc Explorer-H52. The central compartment opening is wide enough to access your gear and get into the nitty-gritty of organizing it. The shoulder strap has ample padding so that you can carry it all day without discomfort. Plus, the laptop compartment has thick padding and a false bottom to ensure your computer makes it from point A to point B. After all, who will monitor your Farmville account while you’re gone?

Whereas we enjoy the level of organization in the main compartment, the secondary pockets feel lacking. This isn’t catastrophic but will annoy some users. However, the durable CORDURA® Ballistic polyester and nylon ensure that any gear you stow inside the main compartment or external pockets is safe.

Whether you’re crossing town or globetrotting, the tomtoc Explorer-H52 Messenger Bag is one of the best messenger bags in terms of budget, materials, and ease of use.

• The main compartment opens wide for gear organization
• The laptop sleeve has a lot of padding and a false bottom, which keeps your tech safe
• Some compartments lack organization
• Sometimes, smaller items will get lost in the main compartment

If you’re a bag nerd like us, you probably have already looked at a few Chrome Industries packs on your journey to find the best messenger bag for your next trip. When it comes to hauling gear, there aren’t many packs better than the Buran III Messenger Bag. It has an amply padded shoulder strap for extra comfort, a stabilizer strap to ensure the pack doesn’t slide down your back while you’re walking or cycling, and thoughtful internal organization for all of your everyday carry items, from your laptop to a water bottle.

At 24 liters, you can stow a lot of gear inside here. However, we think the footprint for its capacity feels a bit off—it’s wide and tall but shallow, which will be difficult to muster for some travelers. However, the comfort offered by the padding and stabilizer strap helps with this immensely. The exterior is crafted from 1050D Nylon and 500D TPE Tarp, both of which are durable and offer excellent water resistance, so your gear will be safe, even if you get caught in the rain.

If you’re looking for comfort and durability but don’t care much about the size of the pack, the Chrome Industries Buran III might be the crossbody messenger bag for you.

• The stabilizer strap helps on rugged journeys or on a bicycle
• The internal organization is thoughtful and easy to use
• It has a large footprint for its capacity
• The materials are pretty heavy

You might have wondered when we’d finally cover a dedicated photography messenger bag, huh? Well, here’s one! Enter the Billingham Hadley Pro Camera Bag.

You can fit an entire camera kit inside this pack, which includes a body and multiple larger lenses. It’ll even fit a Pentax 6x7 medium format camera, which the heritage feel of this pack matches. That said, it does well with a modern kit, too, from mirrorless cameras to bulky DSLRs.

The pack comes in two materials: canvas and FibreNyte. Their canvas fabric is a mixture of polyester and cotton, which is durable and water-resistant. This material looks more classic. FibreNyte is fully synthetic, which adds durability and water resistance but doesn’t feel as heritage-styled, we think. However, both are professional-looking.

As much as we’ve raved about the exterior of this pack, we understand that a vintage look isn’t what everyone is after, and that’s okay. We’ve also found that the leather accents can be challenging to work with, making grabbing your camera slower. If you’re into street or wildlife photography, this could mean missing the perfect shot. That said, once you get used to them, we’ve found they operate pretty quickly. Plus, you can always hold your camera if you’re worried about it.

This might be the best messenger bag for photographers looking for a heritage look with durable materials!

• You can fit an entire camera kit inside
• You can choose canvas or FibreNyte
• The heritage look isn’t for everyone
• The materials feel bulky in some areas

Not every photographer wants a bag that shouts, “Hey! I’ve got thousands of dollars in equipment with me!” If you fall into this category or like subdued packs, the Tenba DNA 16 Slim Messenger Bag might be for you.

At 16 liters, you can fit everything you need for a day of shooting around town, professionally or for fun, and a day of editing photos at the local coffee shop or back in your accommodations to post online or send to your clients. You can fit your camera body, up to 6 lenses (depending on their size), up to a 16-inch computer, a tablet, and various odds and ends to make your photography or videography dreams come true.

The pack is highly water-resistant, including a TPU-coated base with sealed seams to ensure water doesn’t sneak inside, no matter the weather. You can organize the interior how you’d like with the removable inserts; however, some users don’t like how they feel. We’ve had no issues creating something that works for us. It can take some time to get things perfect, though!

If you’re looking for a sleek pack that will fit all your camera gear and keep it dry, this option is the best messenger bag for you!

• You can fit all your camera, computer, and small everyday carry gear inside
• It has a sleek look that doesn’t scream camera backpack
• The internal organization won’t work for everyone
• It can be challenging to decide which size is best for you

If you want a stylish camera pack that has a distressed yet fancy look and can carry most of your camera gear, look no further than Ona’s Brixton messenger bag. Or, maybe you’re from south London and want a pack to remember your hometown by. Either way, you can’t go wrong with this pack. Let’s talk about why!

Although we dig the look, it doesn’t necessarily look or feel expensive. It looks as if your grandpa might have handed it down to you with his Nikon F4 and collection of classic Nikkor AI lenses. Luckily, you can buy this bag new, sadly, without all the vintage glass.

You can fit everything you need for the day inside this pack—a DSLR or mirrorless camera, up to four lenses (depending on their size, two if they’re larger), and up to a 13-inch laptop. Plus, there’s room for extra goodies you’ll need to make great photos and edit them on your computer. The pack comes in leather and canvas options, both of which look sleek and rugged.

The strap isn’t the most comfortable we’ve come across, but it does the job for most trips. If you’re looking for a pack with good vibes that’ll fit most camera kits, this might be one of the best messenger bags for you!

Does your grandpa have any lenses you can throw inside here?

• It doesn’t necessarily look like a camera backpack
• The main compartment can handle most travel camera kits
• The shoulder strap isn’t the most comfortable we’ve seen

Many of the crossbody messenger bags we’ve shared are crafted from durable, heavy materials. However, a pack doesn’t have to weigh you down to be rugged. Enter the TIMBUK2 Lightweight Flight Messenger Bag. We’re not going to pretend that it’s incredibly light; it isn’t. However, for its 21-liter capacity, the 2 pounds (907.2 grams) it weighs isn’t half bad.

We dig the colorway options currently available for the Flight Messenger—they remain sleek but have vibrant pops of color when needed. There are three sizes to choose from, so if the 21-liter model isn’t for you, go with the nine or 14-liter options.

The strap isn’t super long, which will limit how you can wear it and how it fits on some body types. For most intents and purposes, it’s comfortable and easy to use.

No matter the destination, the TIMBUK2 Lightweight Flight Messenger Bag will get your gear there and look good doing it.

• There are three sizes to choose from
• The materials are lightweight and come in unique colorways
• The strap isn’t very long, which affects how you can wear it
• The materials aren’t as durable as some other packs on this list

When you see a FREITAG pack, your first thought is probably something like, “What on earth is that made of?” Well, it’s a long story. FREITAG recycles used truck tarps from semis to make their bags. They scout across the globe for interesting-looking tarps, nearly ready to be retired, clean them, and manufacture them into their packs. Neat, huh?

This makes for an interesting and durable crossbody messenger bag. They’re pretty expensive; however, it isn’t uncommon to see FREITAG bags from the 1990s still rolling around in good condition. These bags are certified BIFL! For the uninitiated, that’s “Buy It For Life”.

There are many unique colors and designs available, too, but you can’t always get the same model twice because it’s based on what truck tarps are available. This makes it so you can’t necessarily repurchase the same one, but you can be assured that your bag is one of a kind!

• It’s a sustainable pack that has some of the most durable materials out there
• The pack is a conversation piece no matter where you end up
• It’s quite expensive
• The colorways and style aren’t going to be everyone’s cup of tea

So there you have it, some of the finest messenger bags this side of the 21st century. Hopefully, you’re ready to pick out your next pack by this point. Happy travels!

October 31, 2023

Author: Eric Hergenreder

Eric has been across the globe, but his favorite place to explore is his home state of Michigan. His love for photography has taken him all around the Great Lake State, often writing about his travels so that others can enjoy them, too. Eric loves messing around with analog photography, watching soccer, and searching for the world’s best burger in his spare time.

The 13 Best Messenger Bags for Men to Carry Their Gear Everywhere

There's an option for every guy's budget to go hands-free.

Our product picks are editor-tested, expert-approved. We may earn a commission through links on our site. Why Trust Us?

Somehow in 2019 we still can’t simply leave our house every morning with just our phones. Instead, we have to try to find ways to lug our gym clothes, meal prepped lunches, laptops, and an entire day’s worth on necessities around with us. Thankfully, for today’s modern man there is a stylish solution: the messenger bag. This wardrobe staple provides both form and function, allowing for ample space and a comfortable hands-free way to carry while still maintaining a stylish appearance.

Below, we round up 13 of the best messenger bags on the market, ranging from business appropriate styles to sporty technical variations that will withstand the test of time.

Herschel Supply Co. Grade Messenger Bag

For those that are a little bolder in their fashion choices, a camo print is a great option. The earth-tone bag is a fun and fresh way to add an adventurous dose of style to your look. 

Arc'teryx FYX 13 Messenger Bag

 It’s difficult to beat a sleek messenger, especially when your work requires you to be constantly attached to your devices. Carry your laptop, tablet, phone, and more with this style that has carefully crafted compartments for all of the above and more. 

Filson Original Briefcase Messenger Bag

A classic in it own right, Filson delivers some of the most modernly masculine bags out there. This textured canvas and polished leather option is a prime example of a perfect everyday bag. 

Patagonia Black Hole MLC 45L Bag

The messenger is a great option for the outdoorsy guy too - perfect for hiking, travel, or camping. This version can carry a weekend's worth of essentials and conveniently converts into a backpack for an even easier carry option.

Timbuk2 Classic Messenger Bag

Commuting into the office just got a lot easier. With a super-smooth internal organization system, this bag is the perfect carryall for all of your needs throughout the week. 

Fossil Buckner EW City Messenger Bag

A unique charcoal gray and rugged brown combination allows this version to be paired with just about anything. Needing to go from the office, to the gym, and then out for a date? This bag has you covered. 

Topo Designs Commuter Briefcase

The clean and contemporary exterior of this carryall (which morphs from a briefcase into a shoulder bag or backpack) is timeless. It's also an ultra-organized pick: With a padded laptop sleeve, internal storage panel, and zippered front pocket, there's plenty of space for all the essentials.  

Michael Kors KORX X TECH Camouflage Messenger Bag

A subtle all-black camo print adds some fun to this classic messenger style. The textured surface of the fabric puts in overtime to protect your bag at all costs. 

Boconi Tyler Leather Messenger Bag

If James Bond were to have sported a messenger bag, it’s easy to assume that this would be his first pick. The hypermodern appearance is enhanced by decadent pebbled leather, effortlessly combining form and function.

Frye Logan Messenger Bag

For a richly-rugged appearance, you can’t go wrong with supple brown leather—and who better to craft it than Frye? Famous for their western-style boots, this bag is constructed in the same materials with just as much love and craft. We guarantee this option will turn heads with envy. 

Brooks England Barbican Messenger Bag

A contrasting handle adds character to this svelte messenger style and gives the gray leather a casual-cool appearance. The different colors allow you to pair it with anything in your closet.

Barbour Wax Leather Briefcase

Warm gold accents and tartan interior spice up this navy and brown briefcase from classic British label Barbour. The well-built bag easily converts into a messenger style with seamless a clip-on strap. 

Coach Metropolitan Soft Camera Bag

Sometimes the best things do come in smaller packages. Ideal for running around on weekends or attending events where you want to be hands-free, sometimes a more compact messenger bag can be more efficient and effective. 

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15 Best Crossbody Bags for Men

From messenger-style carriers to briefcases and everything in between, these are the hands-free designs worth adding to your wardrobe.

Every item on this page was chosen by a Town & Country editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.

More: The Best Men's Designer Bags That Are Worth Every Penny

Best for Traveling

Tumi olten crossbody.

Best Sling Bag

Coach gotham pack.

For the Fashion-Forward Guy

Bottega veneta intrecciato leather messenger bag.

Most Durable

Prada re-nylon and saffiano leather shoulder bag.

T&C Fave

Filson rugged twill original briefcase.

Best for Work

Carl friedrik palissy briefcase slim leather briefcase.

TOM FORD Medium Suede & Leather Messenger Bag

Modern Messenger

Loewe locò mini logo-embellished leather messanger bag.

Best Utilitarian

Bellroy sling mini.

Classic Check

Burberry logo-embellished leather-trimmed checked coated-canvas messenger bag.

Tumi makes some of the best travel bags in the biz, and the Olten crossbody is no exception. Featuring a massive main compartment tricked out with additional mini pockets and an exterior compartment for grabbing your necessities with ease, this slim and sleek carrier is guaranteed to be your new favorite jet-setting companion.

Material: Leather, nylon

Dimensions: 10.8" L X 9.5" W X 2.0" D

When you're heading out the door, but don't want to weigh down your pockets, this small but might sling will come to the rescue.

Material: Leather

Dimensions: 7" L x 12" H x 2" W

Bottega's signature Intrecciato weaving makes everything look stylish, especially this hunter green messenger.

Dimensions: 7.5" H x 11.4" W

For a durable designer crossbody you'll own and wear for ever, you won't find a more reliable option than a Prada nylon bag.

Material: Nylon

Dimensions: 0.78" W x 6.2" H x 1.9" L

Not one, not two, but three T&C male editors carry a Filson crossbody, and that alone should convince you to get one.

Material: 100% cotton rugged twill + bridle leather

Dimensions: 16"L x 4"W x 12 ½"H

Tired of the same old work briefcase? Carl Friedrik's Palissy option, with space for 16-inch laptop and a comfy shoulder strap, is your answer.

Dimensions: 6.1" W x 12.2" H x 3.5" D

TOM FORD Medium Suede & Leather Messenger Bag

For the gent who isn't afraid to experiment with texture, Tom Ford's spacious suede messenger is stylish and practical.

Material: Suede

Dimensions : 13.8"H x 10.6"W x 3.9"D

Function marries fashion with this buttery messenger bag that's tricked out with various compartments for your belongings.

Dimensions: 6.7" L x 9.8" W

Sometimes, you just want a grab-and-go bag that you can throw all your essential belongings in without a second thought. This Bellroy sling is it. Bonus: it's water-resistant and even has a special pocket for AirTags.

Material : Nylon

Dimensions: 120 x 260 x 120 mm

If it's timeless you want, it's timeless you'll get with a coated-canvas messenger printed with an understated navy and black version of Burberry's iconic check print.

Material: Coated canvas, leather

Dimensions: 7.1" H x 11" W

Gucci GG Crossbody Bag

File this under: crossbody bags that are clean and simple, but surely won't go unnoticed.

Material : Rubber-effect leather

Dimensions: 9.4"W x 6.7"H x 2"D

THOM BROWNE Small Striped Pebble-Grain Leather Messenger Bag

Why not veer away from traditional blacks and navys to something a bit more fresh, like a heather gray with preppy stripes? Just as versatile, and the striped strap adds interest.

Dimensions: 7.1" H x 9.1 W

Cole Haan Total Tote

This aptly-named carrier can go from work to travel to beach to farmer's market and beyond without a second thought.

Material : Canvas

Dimensions: 20”L x 8”W x 13.5”H

CELINE HOMME Triomphe Leather-Trimmed Logo-Print Coated-Canvas Phone Pouch

Whether you're sight-seeing in Europe or running a quick errand, Celine's Triomphe-embellished phone pouch will surely become your most-used accessory.

Dimensions : 7.1" H x 3.9" W

More: The Best Crossbody Phone Bags

Dior Dior 8 Bag With Strap

Sure, Dior's crossbody is an investment, but it's one you won't regret splurging on because it has compartments and pockets galore that can hold it all. And we mean all .

Dimensions: 10" L x 7" H x 2" W

Sophie Dweck is the associate shopping editor for Town & Country, where she covers beauty, fashion, home and décor, and more. 

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Shop top men's toiletry bags for traveling

Men's toiletry bags from Amazon, Nordstrom, CALPAK and more.

Shopping for a toiletry bag? We have you covered.

Toiletry bags may hold some of the essential items for your trip: dental hygiene products, skincare, hair care, medicines, and beyond.

So to help keep your toiletries safe and organized, we're rounding up toiletry bags for men from brands like Dagne Dover, Away and BAGSMART. We're including bags in various sizes and materials and with different organizational methods to best suit your needs, whether you're packing for a long vacation or an overnight trip.

As you shop, consider how you want your toiletry bag to function once you arrive at your destination. For example, do you need a hanging bag you can store behind a door in a room with little storage or counter space? Do you need a water-resistant bag? Maybe you're looking for a stylish bag you can personalize with a monogram to make it your own.

Also, keep in mind if there are any travel regulations for your toiletries: a clear, resealable quart-sized bag can go in a carry-on and through TSA's checkpoint security .

Check out our picks for men's toiletry bags below to find the one that suits you best.

By clicking on these shopping links, visitors will leave ABCNews.com. These e-commerce sites are operated under different terms and privacy policies than ABCNews.com. ABC will receive a commission for purchases made through these links. Prices may change from the date of publication.

Harvey Leather Travel Pouch

This Mark & Graham bestselling leather travel pouch has a nylon lining and a zipper closure. It's available in five colors, including chocolate, black and navy. 

• Mark & Graham

Hunter Neoprene Toiletry Bag

Dagne Dover's gender neutral toiletry bag has a 4.9-star rating ad over 1,400 reviews. It's made with water-resistant neoprene material and features a removable air mesh zip-top pouch. There are elastic loops for toiletries and an external D-ring. Plus, it can be hand-washed with a mild detergent in cold water. 

• Dagne Dover

Briggs & Riley Baseline Deluxe Hangable Kit

This hanging Briggs & Riley kit has multiple pockets for shampoo, deodorant, skin care and beyond. It's water-resistant, lined and has a top carry handle in addition to its hanging hook. 

The Large Toiletry Bag

"Designed to fit all of your travel essentials, and then some," Away's website reads. This large toiletry bag has a 4.8-star rating and is available in five colors. It has an exterior zip pocket plus multiple interior compartments. You can personalize it too, to gift to any man in your life.

BAGSMART Toiletry Bag for Men

This BAGSMART bag has 4.7 stars and over 15,000 reviews. It's water-resistant and has elastic straps to hold toiletry bottles in its main compartment. There's also a front waterproof pocket and a dual-zippered opening. 

KOMALC Premium Buffalo Leather Unisex Toiletry Bag

With 4.8 stars and over 12,000 reviews on Amazon, this toiletry bag is a great option. It features an external metal zipper for smaller items and a main interior compartment for essentials. 

Small Clear Cosmetics Case

CALPAK's small-size case is TSA-friendly for air travel. It's made with water-resistant PVC with two zippered compartments for your toiletries. It has a lay-flat carrying handle is available in 18 colors. This bag has 4.9 stars and over 1,000 reviews on CALPAK's website. 

Tumi Alpha 3 Travel Kit

Tumi's Alpha 3 Travel Kit features a front zip-around closure, side-grab handle, exterior zip pocket and an interior zip pocket with elastic hoops. It also has an antibacterial lining.

Herschel Supply Co. Chapter Water Resistant Recycled Polyester Dopp Kit

Fill this Herschel Supply Co. toiletry bag with the essentials you need for a quick trip. It's "hardy 600-denier tech fabric means durability for a convenient dopp kit," according to Nordstrom's website. It has a lining you can wipe clean and a top zip closure for easy access to your products. 

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Best-selling Adidas Sneakers, Comfy Clothes, and More Are Up to 50% Off at Amazon This Weekend

This sale has everything you need to give your wardrobe a sporty refresh.

If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.

Travel + Leisure / Daisy Rodriguez

If your travel wardrobe is in need of a dire refresh, you’ve come to the right place. Amazon has discounted a plethora of stylish and sporty styles from Adidas just in time for warmer weather. Travel + Leisure writers and celebrities alike have praised the brand for its comfortable sneakers and apparel, and right now shoppers can snag deals up to 50 percent off this weekend.  During this under-the-radar sale, you can score some of the brand's most iconic staples, including the widely loved Stan Smith sneakers , track jackets , backpacks , and more for as little as $15. But here’s the catch: We don’t know how much longer these deals will last, so make sure to head to checkout ASAP to grab these discounts before they disappear. 

Adidas Cloudfoam Pure 2.0 Running Shoes

Shoppers gush over the cushioning of these appropriately named running shoes, claiming that they feel like “walking on clouds.” That comfort comes from the brand’s signature cloudfoam padding that is designed to keep feet supported all day long. Beyond this shoe’s comfort, these running sneakers have a convenient slip-on tab and textured outsole, making them easy to pull on while offering excellent traction. Plus, the sneakers are available in sizes 5 to 11. 

Adidas Women’s Stan Smith Sneakers

Ever since Adidas launched its iconic Stan Smith silhouette back in the 1960s, it has been loved among celebrities and travelers for its effortlessly stylish look and comfortable fit. In fact, my mom has been gushing over these sneakers for decades, wearing them as her go-to sneaker. The sneakers are equipped with next-level cushioning to support the arches, toes, and heels. Shoppers can pick up a handful of colors, including navy and gold . 

Adidas Men’s Stan Smith Sneakers

These sneakers are also discounted by 20 percent in men’s sizing. Like the women’s version, they feature durable rubber outsoles for anti-slip traction, meaning you can run through TSA knowing your feet will stay firmly in place. The sneakers come in sizes 4 through 13 and a number of colors. 

Adidas Daily 3.0 Sneaker

These Adidas sneakers have everything you’d want in a travel shoe: rubber outsoles for traction, an extra-cushioned footbed for comfort, and an easy-to style design that you can wear anywhere. On sale for $52 thanks to an on-site coupon, these travel-ready and best-selling sneakers may just be the only shoe you’d need to pack for your next adventure. 

Adidas All Me Tote Bag

As far as travel essentials go, a reliable tote bag is a must. Tote this versatile travel staple around a new city, use it as a gym bag, or stow it underneath your airplane seat. It also has a genius two-strap construction that can be worn on your shoulder or as a crossbody bag. And it has a handful of spacious pockets large enough to fit clothes, shoes, toiletries, and more. Try it out for yourself while it's $42 today. 

Adidas Grand Court 2.0 Tennis Shoes

These classic tennis sneakers have earned a spot on the Amazon best-sellers list. Shoppers note that they’re “comfortable to wear and boast the iconic aesthetic that [Adidas] is known for.” The sneakers are supportive, sturdy, and timeless, and you can wear them just about anywhere, whether you’re on the pickle ball courts or touching down in a new city. Pick up the discounted sneakers while they’re just $60 in select sizes and colors like black and white . 

Adidas Essentials Warm-Up Track Jacket

When it’s cool in the morning yet warm in the afternoon, having a reliable jacket is a must. We like this best-selling track jacket that boasts a full-zip design so you can customize your warmth. This jacket is machine washable and made from a material that’ll keep you warm without overheating. It also features two front pockets and is lightweight enough to tuck easily into a suitcase. 

Adidas Adilette Sandals 

With an impressive collection of more than 8,000 five-star ratings, these slip-on sandals have proven to be the ultimate multitaskers by shoppers. These quick-drying sandals effortlessly transition between “perfect house slippers” to slides you can wear at the pool and beach. Other shoppers have even worn them as shower shoes. Beyond their utility, these sandals boast a cloudfoam bottom and cushioned feel. And thanks to an on-site coupon, these do-it-all sandals are 50 percent off this weekend. 

Adidas Superlite Sport Performance Visor

My go-to choice for sun protection is usually a visor rather than a baseball cap or sun hat. The open-top style lets me keep my hair down or throw it up in a bun without sacrificing coverage from sun rays. Right now, I have my sights set on this lightweight, moisture-wicking visor, especially since it’s only $17 this weekend. Plus, it’s designed with a non-glare undervisor, meaning it won't block your vision during runs and workouts.

Adidas Creator 2 Backpack

If you’re in search of a backpack that’s designed to keep your belongings protected and organized, opt for this Adidas bag. This backpack’s spacious compartments are big enough to house a laptop and hiking shoes, whether you're flying across the country or going on a hiking trip. It also features adjustable and cushioned shoulder straps for an extra layer of comfort and two convenient mesh side pockets for a water bottle. 

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