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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.

Liked this article? You may enjoy these too:

The Ultimate Guide to the World’s Best Duffel Bags

Carry Guide: Find the Best Travel Backpack for You

Best Sling Bags for Everyday Carry

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

EVERYDAY CARRY

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ITS Tactical Discreet Messenger Bag Review

CARRY AWARDS X

Best work shoulder bag champion | carry awards x.

Best Camera Bag Champion | Carry Awards X

Best Messenger Bag Champion | Carry Awards X

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Backpack or Messenger?

Anatomy of a good bag

A Glossary of Carry

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Home » Gear » best travel laptop bags

17 Best Travel Laptop Bags – Honest Reviews & Advice for 2024

Are you in search of a good all-around laptop bag for traveling around with?

In today’s world, travel and tech go hand in hand. You might be traveling for work or pleasure, commute or an international journey, but no matter where you’re going, chances are you’ll take your laptop or tablet with you.

If you’re reading this review, you’re probably looking for the best travel laptop bag to protect your precious computer and tech.

We agree that you should travel with a laptop and take care of it ! After all, working off a laptop gives loads of freedom to live and travel however you’d like. Plus, laptops make staying in contact with home a bit easier.

While looking through all of these laptop bags, you need to ask yourself: “which bag will work best for me and my needs?”

That’s where we come in with our detailed review of 15 of the best laptop bags for travel!

Quick Answer: What are the Best Laptop Bags for Travelers?

How to choose the best travel laptop bags, the best laptop bags for travelers, faq about the best travel laptop bags, final thoughts on the best laptop bags for travelers.

• Best Overall Travel Laptop Bag – Nomatic Messenger Bag
• Best Overall Travel Laptop Bag Runner-up – Tortuga Setout Laptop Backpack
• Best Carry-on Laptop Bag – Fjallraven Kanken #02 Laptop bag
• Best Messenger-style Laptop Bag – Kodiak Buffalo Leather Messenger Bag
• Best ‘Briefcase’ Laptop Bag for Business Travel – Topo Designs Commuter Briefcase
• Best Messenger Laptop Bag for Women – Sherpani Cabo Convertible Pack – Women’s
• Best for Small Laptops – Gulu Handmade Influencer Backpack
• Best for Traveling with a Laptop and Tablet – Inateck Travel Carry-on 40L Laptop Backpack
• Best Waterproof Laptop Bag – Chrome Urban Ex 2.0 Rolltop 20L Pack
• Best Hipster Laptop Bag – Stubble & Co The Roll Top

Nomatic Messenger Bag

• > Great ergonomics

Tortuga Setout Laptop Backpack

• Price > $$$
• > Lockable zippers
• > Tablet compartment

Fjallraven Kanken No. 2 Laptop Pack

• > Lockable main compartment
• > Padded shoulder straps

Kodiak Buffalo Leather Messenger Bag.

• > Weatherproof
• > Thoughtful pockets

MYSTERY RANCH 3-Way Expandable Briefcase

• > TSA-friendly
• > Removable cross-body strap

Topo Designs Commuter Briefcase

• > Carries 15″ laptop
• > 2 exterior pockets

Sherpani Cabo Convertible Pack

• > Flashlight-pen included!
• > Multi-use

Gulu Handmade Influencer Backpack

• > Simple designs
• > Good quality materials

Stubble & Co Roll Top

• > Great laptop compartments
• > Cool and stylish

Inateck Travel Carry-on 40L Laptop Backpack

• > Two laptop compartments
• > Lockable zips

Chrome Urban Ex 2.0 Rolltop 20L Pack

• > Rugged and durable
• > Completely waterproof

Pacsafe MetroSafe LS350 ECONYL Daypack

• > RFIDsafe blocking material
• > Cut-resistant material

MYSTERY RANCH Urban Assault Pack

• > YKK Zippers
• > Comfortable Straps

K&F Concept DSLR Camera and Laptop Bag

• > Tough nylon material
• > Internal dividers can be personalised

Estarer 17.3” Laptop Messenger Bag

• > Made from water repellent canvas
• > RFID protection pocket

REI Co-op Ruckpack 28 Recycled Daypack

• > Plenty of additional pockets
• > Breathable

The Roll Top Stubble & Co

• > Roll top makes it expandable
• > Durable and weather resistant material

When you think about it, there are many factors to consider when buying a laptop bag for traveling – which is why articles like this are so great of course!

You need to travel with a laptop, but is this mainly for commuting within your city, or traveling more broadly, nationally or internationally? And is this travel for work, school, or just plain travel? Do you need your laptop bag to be rugged or is it just for urban use?

Each will have an impact on the laptop bag you want to buy.

What Size Bag Do You Need?

There are some other obvious factors to take into account. You’ll need a bag that fits your particular travel laptop – and if you need to travel with more than one electronic device, you’ll need to make sure any bag you choose can comfortably fit another device.

The best travel laptop bags will include dedicated sleeves, pockets, and dedicated laptop compartments that fit your lifestyle! Also, remember there’s some great travel purses out there that you can combine with a laptop bag to keep your passport and wallet safe and organised.

Once you figure out what size and shape you want, you need to know how much extra stuff you want to carry. Is this bag for a short commute to school or work If so, you may only need a bag under 20 liters.

Are you traveling for longer periods? If so, you’re going to need space for clothes, adapters, and other miscellaneous kits. In this case, laptop backpacks might be better than a messenger bag. We have a best laptop backpacks post elsewhere on the site.

Type of Laptop Bag

There are a few different types of laptop bags in this article. We have reviewed classic messenger bags, urban backpacks, classic-style bags, and fully waterproof backpacks.

Some even switch from a messenger to a backpack for their laptops ! Depending on your style and needs, you will need to decide what type of bag you want.

Organization

Consider how you like to pack and travel. Are you a simple soul who can survive on the minimum? If so, you’ll be happy with a minimalist bag with fewer compartments, a laptop sleeve, and not much else.

Someone who prefers to travel with more kit, or likes to be more organized, will undoubtedly want a laptop travel bag with several compartments, pockets, and organization features.

The question of cost is also an important one for many, and will also have an impact on how long you’re expecting this bag to last – just a couple of weeks to cover you during an unexpected trip, or do you want a bag durable enough to last you for years.

Below is our full list of the 15 top laptop bags for travel on the market! We have reviewed bags for all styles, uses, and budgets. Whether you need a bag to travel for business, pleasure, or simply to-and-from work, we’ve got you covered below!

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#1. Nomatic Messenger Bag – Best Overall Travel Laptop Bag

Nomatic has provided us with a simple travel laptop bag. This slim over-the-shoulder is perfect for toting your laptop and necessary accessories around in an urban environment, and we love traveling with it!

This sleek laptop travel bag holds everything you need in a slim 3.5 inches. The padded straps even unbuckles so your bag can disguise itself as a professional travel briefcase. Traveling is easy with the Nomatic Laptop Bag, as it can slip right over your suitcase with its trolley sleeve.

Also, you won’t be the one holding up the line at TSA, as the bag allows quick access to those items that need extra screening.

To learn more about this awesome shoulder bag, be sure to read our full review of the Nomatic Messenger Bag!

UPDATE for 2021:  Nomatic no longer sells or does business in the European Union, which is an unfortunate development. Those living in the EU should consider the next bag instead…

• Sleek & urban
• Retractable key leash
• Detachable shoulder strap
• No additional tablet sleeve or pocket
• No cross-strap for extra comfort

Is the Nomatic Laptop Bag for me?

If you want a functional laptop bag that organizes and totes your stuff with the highest degree of style, this is your bag! However, if you need a little more storage space or are looking for a backpack, check out our other recommendations.

#2. Tortuga Setout Laptop Backpack – Best Overall Travel Laptop Bag Runner-up

Regardless if you’re a commuter flying about town on an electric bike or digital nomad, you’ll need a bit more storage space in your laptop bag for all those important cords, external keyboards, and laptop mounts you’re surely carrying around (just kidding, us digital nomads are often lovers of minimalism).

The Tortuga Setout Laptop Backpack provides space for all your work necessities and a few comforts as well, so it’s a great bag for weekend trips. Beyond space, the Setout’s distinct advantage is a beautifully organized interior.

This is laptop backpack has pockets for days, so you’ll never have to dig through the bag looking for that important piece that you just know you packed.

• 25L Capacity
• Comfortable to carry
• Tablet compartment
• Lockable zippers
• Only for urban use
• Not an all-in-one travel bag

Is the Tortuga Setout Laptop Backpack for me?

We’ve answered this question in-depth in our Tortuga Setout Laptop Backpack Review, but here’s the gist. If you want a bag to organize all your tech and a little more, this bag is perfect. If you’re looking for absolute maximum capacity to carry everything at once, we recommend the traditional Tortuga Setout.

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#3. Fjallraven Kanken No. 2 Laptop Pack – Best Carry-On Travel Laptop Bag

The combination of trendy styling, size, and resistance to dirt and water makes the Fjallraven Kanken a fine carry-on for traveling with a laptop.

Although one of the simpler laptop bags we’re covering, the double zip closure of the main compartment and its padded laptop sleeve, is lockable for peace of mind. This bag also includes several smaller pockets for keeping items organised, and useful black leather handles too.

Padded shoulder straps make this comfortable to carry while in the various queues you might well encounter at an airport.

• Beautifully styled
• Lockable main compartment
• Smaller pockets for organisation
• Padded shoulder straps
• Not fully waterproof
• 18-liter capacity

Is the Fjallraven Kanken 15” Laptop Bag for me?

If you’d rather go for a briefcase-style bag rather than a backpack, the Timbuk2 Flight Classic Messenger Bag is a great option! This bag will last you for years, through sun and rain, and for commute and business trips!

This bag also comes in multiple colors including black, army, and a neon teal.

#4. Kodiak Buffalo Leather Messenger Bag – Best Messenger-Style Laptop Bag

Enter the Kodiak Buffalo Leather Messenger Bag. A large sling bag for daily use, which not only looks totally classy AF, but also fits with a variety of work and travel situations. This bag has tons of internal pockets for your pens, small items, and even a padded, firm place to store files. It fits a 15″ laptop.

There is a removable cross-body strap for carrying. The shoulder strap includes a super comfortable air-mesh strap pad. The flap corners fold into place for weatherproofing and the waterproof thermoplastic liner keeps water out.

• Weatherproof material
• Thoughtfully distributed internal pockets
• Removable cross-body strap
• No backpack straps
• Leather is not the most weather resistant material

Is The Kodiak Messenger Bag for me?

This super snazzy, classy messenger satchel is a beauty. This bag will last you for years, through sun and rain, and for commute and business trips!

#5. MYSTERY RANCH 3-Way Expandable Briefcase – Best Briefcase-Style Bag for Business Travelers

This briefcase laptop bag is both rugged and practical! We think this is one of the best laptop bags for business travel!

It has a zippered main compartment, a laptop compartment and multiple accessory pockets. The bag can hold a 15″ laptop and an expandable zipper provides 5 extra liters of storage if you need it.

It also includes fully cushioned backpack straps when not in use. Like a briefcase, it provides adequate space for a laptop or iPad, binder, and any smaller things you may need to carry.

• TSA-friendly
• Only 18 liters
• Not much padding on the shoulder strap
• No bottle carrier

Is the MYSTERY RANCH 3-Way Expandable Briefcase for me?

This is a go-to bag for everyday and weekend use. Like a briefcase, it’s very convenient for a 15″ laptop and everyday necessities. Expanded, it can be used for a three-day business trip and will deploy the backpack straps for help with added weight.

#6. Topo Designs Commuter Briefcase – Most Stylish Briefcase-Style Laptop Bag

Looking for a stylish and modern briefcase to carry your laptop? If so, look no further than the Topo Designs Commuter Briefcase! Topo makes top quality and versatile bags. This bag is designed to carry a standard 15 in. laptop plus essentials, so it’s also a great laptop bag for business travelers.

Its double-layer bottom provides water resistance and durability.

• Carries 13″ laptop
• Exterior zipped pocket
• No water bottle pocket
• Not big enough to be a full day bag (more like a purse)

Is the Topo Designs Commuter Briefcase for me?

This is a high-quality, rugged briefcase bag that is stylish too! The internal space comfortably holds a 13″ laptop, book, and pad. The external pockets are useful. If you need a bag for your laptop and essentials, this bag is a great choice. If you want a laptop bag for commute, the gym, and travel, then it’s probably not big enough! Overall, Topo quality is hard to beat.

#7. Sherpani Cabo Convertible Pack – Women’s  – Best Messenger Laptop Bag for Women

This is stylish messenger is one of the best travel laptop bags for women (though men can use it too!). We love that it’s an all-in-one convertible backpack and cross body bag. It includes an anti-theft locking slider, anti-slashing fabric, and RFID-protected panel for added security and peace of mind.

There is a deep main zipper compartment with zipper locks. The padded internal laptop sleeve fits most 11 inch computers, and there’s an extra interior pocket for a phone and other bits.

It also has a front pocket as well as a back packet which doubles as storage for the straps when not in use. Bonus points for the included flashlight-pen!

• Super secure
• Flashlight-pen included!
• Only fits up to a 11-inch laptop
•  Tight squeeze for everything

Is the Sherpani Capo Convertible Pack Tote for me?

This is a go-to, multifunctional bag and backpack! There are a few things that can improve, but we like that it is a secure and stylish bag with a padded internal laptop sleeve and a nice array of exterior pockets. The biggest drawback, however, is that it only fits most 11 inch laptops. Get a bigger bag if you have a bigger laptop.

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#8. Gulu Handmade Influencer Backpack – Best for Small Laptops

Gulu Made isn’t just a brand, it’s a credos. Every one of this brand’s backpacks comes from a factory in Uganda, handmade by local women who survived the brutal civil war That’s impressive enough, but this brand doesn’t just do good deeds, the products are absolute class and this piece is about all comfort !

This no-frills backpack doesn’t reinvent the industry by any stretch. It just recrafts it with a handmade approach. That results in a form-fitting back cushion that helps work with your body to carry the load. At the top of the panel is chimney-style ventilation that keeps things breathable while you go about taking care of business. It has water bottle pockets (and while we are discussing H20 a good level of water resistance and is an all round excellent everyday backpack.

• Simple designs
• Ethically made
• Good quality materials
• Just one main compartment
• Water resistant but not waterproof
• 20 Liters is too small for some

Is the Gulu Handmade backpack for me?

The truth be told, if you require the use of a larger laptop then this is not the pack for you. When I tested it I was using my MacBook Pro 11″ but my girlfriend tested it using her older 14″ and it was not a comfortable fit.

Still, if you are happy with a smaller travel laptop pack then this one is hard to beat. Its the best laptop backpack for those with small laptops.

#9 Stubble & Co Roll Top – Best Laptop Bag For Daytrips

This awesome laptop backpack has fairly recently come to our attention but has impressed us very much. The Stubble & Co Roll Top backpack superbly combines functionality with performance all in a part recycled, eco-friendly package.

This  lightweight backpack  is durable and very comfortable and intended for all weather conditions making it perfect to wear on your bike. Custom built with cycling and the outdoors in mind, the Roll Top features sealed seams, water-resistant zips, reflective logos and considered compartments. It’s also very well priced.

• Great laptop compartments
• Organizational pockets
• Cool and stylish
• Eco friendly
• Pockets might not meet the needs of some
• Roll top is not for everyone
• Lacks protection from scanning technology

Is the Stubble & Co Roll Top Backpack for me?

Yes it is! Ok, so this pack is stylish, practical, is built to a high spec and as far as day-sized backpacks go, is very tough to beat.

#10.  Inateck Travel Carry-on 40 litre Laptop Backpack – Best Laptop Bag for Traveling with Laptop and Tablet

The Inateck Travel Carry-on 40 litre Laptop Backpack offers two laptop compartments, each of which has the standard protection and padded sections you have come to expect from a dedicated laptop bag.

Double zips mean these compartments are lockable if you’re looking for extra peace of mind, while an additional rain cover means all your tech will be protected even in the worst of downpours.

Additional features include a very handy change pocket and an anti-theft pocket on the back panel. What’s more, this travel laptop bag has a great range of carrying options, with shoulder straps, side handle, and band to slip over the extended handle of a wheeled backpack too!

• Two laptop compartments
• Lockable zips
• 40 liters too large for some
• Square shape

Is the Inateck Travel Carry-on 40 litre Laptop Backpack for me?

We can see that the Inateck Travel Carry-on 40 litre Laptop Backpack might not be for everyone with its square shape. But anyone looking for a larger travel bag for a laptop will like the fact this offering from Inateck has a capacity of 40 liters, in addition to its two padded laptop compartments meaning a latop and all your other digital nomad essentials will fit nicely.

#11. Chrome Urban Ex 2.0 Rolltop 20L Pack – Best Waterproof Laptop Bag

The best part about this backpack is that it is completely waterproof. If you live and work somewhere it rains a lot, then this is one of the best laptop bags for you! This laptop bag holds a standard 15 in. laptop and has an additional internal sleeve for documents as well as a stretch-mesh pocket for the accessories and doodads.

It has a padded back panel and adjustable shoulder straps for comfort. A 1-handed release buckles hold the top lid closed and offer easy access with a zippered top flkat for extra security. I do wish there was a water bottle holder, however.

• Dedicated 15-inch laptop and iPad area
• Rugged and durable
• Completely waterproof
• Color can wear out easily

Is the Chrome Urban Ex 2.0 Rolltop 20L Pack for me?

This multi-functional, waterproof laptop bag. This bag is for you if you have to deal with traveling and commuting in the rain. It’s also quite sleek and stylish, and useful for multiple situations.

#12. Pacsafe MetroSafe LS350 ECONYL Daypack  – Best Travel Laptop Bag for Safety

The Pacsafe Slingsafe LS350 is one of the best travel laptop bags with anti-theft functionality. Plus, it has plenty of space for your books and docs, and a padded sleeve for your 13 in. laptop, all in a go-anywhere, protective design. If you need to keep your laptop safe, then this may be the bag for you.

This laptop bag comes with lots of safety features, such as  RFIDsafe blocking material  to prevent your credit card and other chip data from being swiped. There are cut-resistant achor straps for securing valuables and an internal attachment point for your keys an wallet.

At only 15 liters, however, it’s much more suited to safe city excursions rather as a soiltary travel bag.

• Strong securing points for valuables
• RFIDsafe blocking material
• Cut-resistant material
• Fits laptops only up to 13″
• Quite a small capacity at only 15 liters

Is the Pacsafe MetroSafe LS350 for me?

Don’t worry about traveling with your laptop thanks to this Anti-Theft Pacsafe Daypack. This backpack is for you if you prioritize security above all else! It is a small backpack, however, and may not be for you if you need more than 15 liters of space.

#13. MYSTERY RANCH Urban Assault Pack – Best Laptop Bag for Computer and Tablet

This laptop bag does it all. Use it for rugged travel or your day-to-day commute! I can’t think of a more perfect bag. It’s minimalist yet offers lots of storage, even for an 18-liter bag. There are small, inside pockets, and it can easily fit a 13″ laptop plus a tablet/reader.  The quality is bombproof and will handle any drops.

• 2 Internal zippered pockets
• The sleeve fits up to a 15-inch laptop
• YKK Zippers
• Comfortable Straps
• Only 18 Liter Bag
• No Water Bottle Pocket

Is the Mystery Ranch Urban Assault Backpack for me?

Don’t worry again about traveling with your laptop thanks to this bomb proof backpack! It’s durable and stylish all in one. While on the smaller side, it still helps you organize your essentials. This is a great bag, but only 18 liters. If you need a laptop bag for travel, consider a bigger sized pack.

#14. K&F Concept DSLR Camera and Laptop Bag – Perfect Bag for Laptop and Camera

This laptop travel bag is surprisingly lightweight given the specific protection it gives to both camera gear and a laptop, weighing in at 1.2kg.

It can hold two cameras, five lenses, those photographic extras all semi-professional cameramen require, and a laptop up to 13.3”!

It’s made from a tough nylon material which provides additional protection from tears, bumps, and light rain too. The interior dividers can be modified to your taste, with the main compartment opening flat to 180° for easy camera and laptop access.

There’s a space to hang a lighter weight tripod on the exterior side of the bag, and a waist belt in addition to padded shoulder straps to ensure all your expensive kit stays exactly where it should on your back.

• Dedicated camera and laptop bag
• Capacity for a large amount of camera equipment
• Tough nylon material
• Internal dividers can be personalised
• Not a briefcase-style bag
• Only fits laptops up to 13.3”
• Just one colour available

Is the K&F Concept DSLR Camera and Laptop Bag for me?

If you’re an active amateur or semi-professional photographer, you’ve got more than just a laptop to carry around with you as you travel. With this equipment being so expensive to buy and replace, you don’t want to risk using a bag that isn’t dedicated to the job. Instead, hit order on the K&F Concept, you won’t regret it!

#15. Kroser 15.6” Laptop Briefcase Bag – Best Laptop Bag for Business Travelers

Made from water-repelling canvas this Kroser briefcase-style laptop bag can fit laptops up to 15.6 inches.

Although it lacks the shoulder straps you’ll find on a backpack, it has both carry handles and a single shoulder strap for a choice of carrying options.

The main compartment is TSA-friendly, meaning it meets the needs of US airport security, while there are two other small compartments for notepads, paper, and pens. This laptop bag is good for business travelers.

Perhaps the best feature of the Kroser 15.6” laptop briefcase bag is its RFID pockets, which protect your electronic data on credit cards and passports from being scanned and then stolen.

• Made from water repellent canvas
• Carry handles and single shoulder strap
• RFID protection pocket
• Won’t fit larger laptops
• Weight of just over 1 kg

Is the Kroser 15.6” laptop briefcase bag for me?

If you’d rather go for a briefcase-style bag rather than a dedicated business backpack, the Kroser 15.6” laptop bag is a good option. In addition to the main compartment that will take an average-sized laptop, there’s the additional space supplied by further compartments, as well as RFID protection for your electronic data too!

#16. REI Co-op Ruckpack 28 Recycled Daypack  – Best Budget Laptop Backpack

This heavy-duty travel laptop bag will hold not only a laptop up to 15” in size in a padded pocket, but also an interior pocket for organization and is even designed to be overstuffed! Though only 28 L in size there are also exterior pockets as well as one dedicated for your water botttle.

Designed to most airline check-in restrictions, you’ll be breezing through airports in no time. What’s more, the back panel is lined with mesh to keep wearers cool, while adjustable shoulder straps keep everything sitting right.

• Capable of carrying laptops up to 15”
• Plenty of additional pockets
• Too small to suit all kinds of travelers
• A tablet sleeve would be a nice bonus

Is the REI Co-op Ruckpack 28 Recycled Daypack for me?

While lacking in a tablet sleeve, the comfort of this pack combined with its budget price for such a sturdy beast is certainly nothing to ignore. The wealth of additional pockets and rather smart-casual stylish look only go further to accentuate this a budget pack suitable for most travelers.

#17. The Roll Top Stubble & Co – Best Hipster Laptop Backpack

The Roll Top is a great hipster-style 20L bag perfect for carrying around your laptop as well as having heaps of room for your other accessories. What really makes it stand out for a day pack is that the laptop compartment is in a separate pocket on the back of the bag. This both makes it mega secure (especially for a roll top) and also saves the massive main compartment for everything else.

Internally the main compartment is one massive space with a selection of pockets and organisers attached to the other side of the laptop compartment/ back panel. This works well giving you some level of organisation whilst also being super roomy.

• Capable of carrying laptops up to 16”
• Roll top makes it expandable
• Durable and weather resistant material
• Could do with more internal organisation
• Would like an internal zip as well as the roll top

Is Stubble & Co The Roll Top for me?

If you’re looking for something that is both stylish, functional and also super robust, the Roll Top is the perfect choice for a laptop bag. We love that it’s got that classic hipster feel whilst actually being super practical too. The black exterior also keeps water out well, is durable enough for everyday use and is smart enough for the office.

Now, you  could spend a fat chunk of $$$ on the WRONG present for someone. Wrong size hiking boots, wrong fit backpack, wrong shape sleeping bag… As any adventurer will tell you, gear is a personal choice.

So give the adventurer in your life the gift of convenience: buy them an REI Co-op gift card!  REI is The Broke Backpacker’s retailer of choice for ALL things outdoors, and an REI gift card is the perfect present you can buy from them. And then you won’t have to keep the receipt. 😉

Still have some questions? No problem! We’ve listed and answered the most commonly asked questions below. Here’s what people usually want to know:

What is the difference between a laptop bag and a laptop backpack?

A laptop backpack is carried on your back with two straps. A laptop bag only has one strap and is held on one shoulder and across your chest and back.

Which is the safest laptop bag?

The Pacsafe Slingsafe LS350 is one of the best travel laptop bags with anti-theft functionality. It is made form cut resistant material which makes it one of the safest laptop bags.

What do I need to consider when buying a laptop bag?

Keep these key-features in mind: 1. Size and Volume of the bag depending on what kind of laptop you have 2. Style and design 3. Organisation and cost

What is the best laptop bag for large laptops?

If you own a 17inch laptop, you’ll love the Estarer 17.3” Laptop Messenger Bag . It offers plenty of space and protection for your laptop.

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We’ve worked hard to sort the wheat from the chaff so that you can see the best laptop bags on the market! From large, small, stylish, messenger-style, and functional, we’re confident you’ll find a keeper among our picks!

To summarize: we think that the Nomatic Messenger Bag is currently the best that money can buy. It’s versatile, tough, and does what it’s supposed to do (protect your gear).

That being said, there are plenty of other specialized bags out there for you to consider. The waterproof Arc’teryx Granville Pack  is great for those more demanding adventures. The Tortuga Setout is probably more appropriate for those traveling long term. Finally, the Kroser 15.6” Laptop Briefcase Bag is great for those who travel frequently for business,

Whether you’re looking for a laptop bag for travel, work, or everything in between, this list has you covered!

Although you should be able to use almost all of the bags on this list as a carry-on, some airlines still like to make a fuss over an inch or two. In this case, it pays to know the airline’s own carry-on regulations. Use this convenient list of airlines and their cabin policies as a reference, if needed.

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

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I got a Pogoplug. An awesome piece of kit which ensures my precious photos are backed up at home on my own personal cloud. There’s no operating fees and you can attach as many drives to it as you see fit. If anything happens to my gear at least my memories are safe…

Also I ditched the laptop as a traveling companion and went for an iPad. Sure it’s not as powerful but it’s lighter and fils all the roles I need it to when I’m on the hoof.

Thanks for sharing that. iPads are certainly light but personally, I will not give up my Mac!

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The Best Messenger and Crossbody Bags

If you buy something using links in our stories, we may earn a commission. This helps support our journalism. Learn more . Please also consider subscribing to WIRED

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.

Nena Farrell

Brenda Stolyar

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 Best Laptop Messenger and Shoulder Bags of 2024

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Reviewed's mission is to help you buy the best stuff and get the most out of what you already own. Our team of product experts thoroughly vet every product we recommend to help you cut through the clutter and find what you need.

Timbuk2 Proof

Excellent durability

Beautiful canvas design

Tons of capacity

Buckles tough to close when full

Kenneth Cole Reaction Leather Laptop Case

Fits 15.6-inch laptops

Beautiful full-grain leather

Needs maintenance

Not much extra storage

Case Logic 17" Laptop Messenger Bag

Fits up to 17-inch laptops

Simple, lightweight design

Hold the essentials

Lacking extra storage

Case Logic 14" LoDo 14" Laptop Attaché

Stylish, sturdy design

Plenty of pockets

Designed for smaller devices

Mosiso 17.3" Laptop Tote Bag

Stylish leather purse design

Lots of compartments

Snug laptop pocket

Doesn’t fit most 15.6-inch laptops

Updated April 18, 2023

If you commute to work or school, a good laptop bag isn’t just a must-have—it’s critical to getting through your day. We’ve obsessed over laptop bags for years, and while everyone’s criteria will be different, we think most people will be happy with the laptop messenger bags that we’ve selected.

So what makes a great laptop messenger bag? It’s pretty obvious—you want something stylish, durable enough to withstand daily wear and tear, and with enough space to carry what you need every day. Though some people will prefer to travel light (in which case we’ve got several great lightweight picks), others want to bring their entire life on-the-go.

No matter what kind of shopper you are, we’ve found a laptop shoulder bag that will be right for you.

The recommendations in this guide are based on thorough product and market research by our team of expert product reviewers. The picks are based on examining user reviews, product specifications, and, in some limited cases, our experience with the specific products named.

The Timbuk2 Proof is, in our mind, the premiere laptop messenger bag. We’ve had several in use for years around our office and have taken them all over the world and back again. The main part of the bag is made of extremely durable, stylish canvas, with leather accents on the straps, flaps, and buckles.

The Proof features a main interior compartment that will fit a 15-inch laptop, two sewn exterior pockets, a zipped interior enclosure, a zipped rear enclosure perfect for holding a phone or tablet, and several interior pockets for holding business cards, cables, or whatever else you need. The shoulder strap is made of durable woven canvas and hasn’t snapped on us in over three years of daily usage.

The Kenneth Cole Reaction crossbody messenger bag features an incredibly stylish full-grain leather design. It’s available in three colors—a rich cognac, a deep chocolate brown, and a classic black—fits up to a 15.6-inch laptop, and has an adjustable shoulder strap that extends to 60 inches.

This leather bag will look excellent with jeans or a suit. Though there's not much here for extra storage, it should have enough for the essentials. The flap doesn't lock as securely as some buckled designs,it does include snaps on the inside to keep it shut when you're on the move.

The Case Logic VNM-217 laptop is ideal for the person who wants a standard messenger laptop bag with a durable design and lots of storage but who doesn’t want a lot of frills. Its design is simple and no-nonsense, with lined compartments for your chargers, notebooks, pens, and other assorted essentials.

The bag can pretty comfortably accommodate laptops up to 17 inches, reviewers say. For most standard 13- and 15-inch laptops, you should have no trouble. The design here doesn’t scream “premium” with plastic attachments and accents, but it should hold up for a long time where plenty of metal, leather, and canvas stress points tend to break down over time.

If you rely on a smaller laptop or tablet to get your work done, the Case Logic LoDo Attache Case is a great choice. This canvas bag is small compared to others, but it’s also lightweight and easy to bring with you everywhere without getting in your way.

Reviewers were particularly fond of the LoDo’s many easy access pockets, as well as its design, which takes some premium elements from more expensive bags but doesn’t drive up the price dramatically. It's a great bag from one of the most reputable names in laptop accessories.

Though most classic messenger bags use a traditional crossbody/over-the-shoulder design, the Mosiso Leather Tote Bag is more like a large tote or purse with an interior laptop pocket. It features excellent style, organization, and comes in a variety of colors and sizes, perfect for customizing it to your exact needs and taste.

The main drawback reviewers noted is that the actual laptop pocket is very snug, suitable primarily for 13-inch laptops and not larger 15- and 17-inch laptops. Those may fit in the bag, but it would likely have to just go into the main pocket, rattling around with whatever else you throw in the bag. Otherwise, this is an excellent commuter-friendly bag that offers excellent style at a great value.

The classic all-leather travel shoulder bag is a staple in many people’s closets, but it’s surprisingly tricky to find a nice leather laptop bag that doesn’t fall apart in a month—including high-quality designer ones. The KomalC seems to have figured it out, with a functional, durable design that can fit most laptops with style. The zippered pocket on the outside opens to reveal space for all your essentials.

It’s not perfect—reviewers were quick to note how the leather can get scuffed up rather easily—but it’s a gorgeous bag that should wear its scars well over time.

Beautiful leather design

Fits 16-inch laptops

Laptop pocket is open

Leather needs care

If you’re looking for a basic, no-frills laptop shoulder bag, the Lenovo T210 is the way to go. It’s one of the most popular (and affordable) laptop bags, with over 11,000 reviews and a wild 4.7-star rating. That’s remarkable, but it’s well deserved.

If you want a super stylish bag designed with premium leather accents and tons of storage for your entire life, this isn’t the bag for you. But if you want a water-resistant laptop messenger bag that will keep your essentials protected and organized while on the move, this is one of the best (and most affordable) ways to do that.

Muted style

Water-repellent

Lightweight

Basic design

Too small for bulky 15.6-inch laptops

Sometimes you really just need a basic laptop bag. The Voova padded laptop sleeve bag is it, with a very simple design that’s elegant and stripped down to the bone. Like the name suggests, this fully waterproof bag is effectively a laptop sleeve with a couple extra pockets and a shoulder strap.

It’s stylish, affordable, and it’ll keep your laptop well-protected while you’re on the go. It has just enough room to include your headphones, a notebook, and your charger—but little else. If that’s all you need, this is a refreshingly lightweight way to tote your gear around.

No extra storage

The Lacdo 17.3-inch 360° Laptop Shoulder Bag is another barebones bag that is little more than a padded laptop sleeve with a shoulder strap. For a lot of people, that’s ideal, and this still comes with enough extra storage to get you through your day with two exterior zippered pockets.

Reviewers praise the bag’s style, and we’re inclined to agree. It comes in a variety of colors, with sizes ranging from 13.3 up to 17.3 inches, though we recommend that you size up relative to what you’re trying to fit, as the laptop pocket can be a bit snug.

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Prices were accurate at the time this article was published but may change over time.

Meet the tester

Former Director, Content Development

TJ is the former Director of Content Development at Reviewed. He is a Massachusetts native and has covered electronics, cameras, TVs, smartphones, parenting, and more for Reviewed. He is from the self-styled "Cranberry Capitol of the World," which is, in fact, a real thing.

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Home » Office » Laptop Messenger Bags

The Best Laptop Messenger Bags

Gene Gerrard

Updated March 16, 2020

W e tested the highest-rated laptop messenger bags to find out which one is the most durable, has the roomiest interior and is the most comfortable to haul on your shoulders for extended periods of time. We’ve chosen the Timbuk2 – Classic Messenger Bag as the best laptop messenger bag, because of its smart, utilitarian design and spacious interior with pockets for just about anything you need with you throughout the day. Our runner-up, the CoolBELL – Convertible Messenger Bag , may not be as fashion-forward as more expensive bags, but it makes up for it with a cushioned laptop pocket and hidden straps that convert it into a backpack.

Our Top Choices

Best Overall

Classic Messenger Bag

Convertible Messenger Bag

Important features to consider

Laptop messenger bags come in a variety of sizes and styles, and as we discussed in our review of the best laptop backpacks , you want a bag that is comfortable to wear and also protects your laptop from the elements. As we researched and tested messenger bags, we pinpointed certain features you should look for.

Size: Generally, laptop messenger bags are available in three sizes: 13-inch, 15-inch and 17-inch. Laptop messenger bags are designed to keep your laptop snug and secure, so it’s best to choose a size that matches your laptop. (All of the bags we tested were for 15-inch laptops.)

Dedicated, padded laptop compartment: The interior of most laptop messenger bags is divided into two sections. Protecting your laptop is a priority, and the best bags have a dedicated compartment that’s padded at least on one side. They should also have a Velcro tab that folds over the edge of your laptop and keeps it in place.

Material: Messenger bags are usually made of canvas, nylon or leather. The leather bags are certainly fashion-forward for the business-person, but unless they’re pre-treated with a protectant, they’ll get discolored and stained. We prefer a waxed-canvas bag, which is water-resistant but also expands and accommodates more items than a leather bag.

Well-padded shoulder strap: If you’re going to be lugging a heavy messenger bag on bike or by foot, then you need a shoulder strap that’s well-padded. Some bags we tested had a shoulder pad that was only 6 or 7 inches in length with almost no padding, and these cause neck and shoulder-muscle strain. The best bags have a longer pad that’s cushioned with foam and breathable mesh.

Secure closure: Messenger bags have a large cover flap that secures to the bottom of the bag with magnetic snaps, quick-clip buckles, Velcro or zippers. For the best protection from rain, we recommend a messenger bag that has a zippered interior and a cover flap that secures with quick-clip buckles. This double system will ensure that your laptop and other important contents will stay dry.

If you’re looking for more essential bicycle gear, our experts have also reviewed the best bike helmet , the best bike rack and the best bike pump .

Timbuk2 - Classic Messenger Bag

See Price at Amazon

Made of tough Cordura nylon, the Timbuk2 – Classic Messenger Bag is probably the one you’ve seen on many a delivery-cyclist’s back. It has only two zippered exterior pockets, one of which has a nylon cord with a clip for holding keys. Inside the vinyl-lined bag is one large zippered pocket and four smaller pockets — for a cell phone and pens — sewn on top of the large pocket. The large outer flap attaches to the bag with plastic quick-click buckles and a wide Velcro band.

The Timbuk2’s primary feature is its capacity. Although the bag’s interior isn’t padded, it can expand more than any other bag we tested. We filled the Timbuk2 with the same items — 15-inch laptop, books and documents — and there was still room to spare. The bag’s strap has a massive 13-inch-long shoulder pad that’s cushioned with foam and breathable mesh. Read more…

Our only complaint with the Timbuk2 is its stabilizer cross-strap for cyclists: a flimsy strip of nylon with Velcro that gives way if the bag is full. Timbuk2 continually adds new colors and patterns to the Classic Messenger Bag line, and all are priced higher than other similar messenger bags.

CoolBELL - Convertible Messenger Bag

The CoolBELL – Convertible Messenger Bag may not be as fashion-forward as other messenger bags, but it makes up for it with its sheer functionality. Made of a nylon exterior and vinyl interior, the CoolBELL is water resistant. It has six exterior zippered pockets of varying sizes, each with a leather pull. The pulls aren’t especially stylish, but they make unzipping each pocket a breeze. The interior, separately zippered pocket for a 15-inch laptop is very well cushioned — in fact, it had the plushest padding of all the bags we tested — and an elastic and Velcro tab keeps the laptop secure.

The shoulder strap has a decently padded shoulder pad, but the real stand-out feature of the CoolBELL is its hidden straps that convert the bag into a backpack. The straps tuck into the bag’s exterior pocket, and when you want to convert the bag, you pull out the straps and snap them onto clips at the bottom of the bag. We jammed the CoolBELL full, and when using the backpack straps, we found it was the most comfortable messenger bag to carry. The CoolBELL is also budget-priced and is available in a larger size for a 17.3-inch laptop.

Manificent - Men's Messenger Bag

The Manificent – Men’s Messenger Bag has an expansive capacity, won’t give you shoulder pain to tote around all day and is handsome to look at too. It’s made of waxed water-resistant canvas that’s more flexible than leather when you load up the interior. Another feature to help waterproof the bag is its zippered interior, also made of waxed canvas.The Manificent’s dedicated laptop pocket is well-padded on both sides, and an elastic and Velcro band prevents your laptop from moving.

The bag has a large, zippered exterior pocket and three internal pockets, one of which is designed to hold a cell phone. We stuffed the bag full with a 15-inch laptop, documents and thick paperback books, and there was still room to spare inside. The Manificent has a wide shoulder strap with a well-cushioned shoulder pad. It’s a well-crafted laptop messenger bag, and for only $43, it’s also a tremendous value as well.

Kenneth Cole Reaction - Come Bag Soon

Despite its odd name, the Kenneth Cole Reaction – Come Bag Soon is a beautiful leather messenger bag that could be used as a lightweight briefcase. Be aware though that rain and daily use will stain and scratch the bag unless you pre-treat it with a leather protectant. The bag has three generously sized pockets: The rear pocket is the length and depth of the bag, and the two front pockets are 6.5-inches wide and 7-inches deep. Each easily secures with magnetic snaps, but they tend to pop open when the bag is full.

The pockets are lined with a proprietary material that shields RFID (radio frequency identification) devices from snoopers, and an inner pocket is designated for a cell phone with its own protective flap. The bag’s interior has a well-padded pocket for a laptop and a nylon and Velcro band for keeping it in place. The bag isn’t as spacious as other messenger bags, and the leather prevents it from expanding. The nylon shoulder strap has a thin shoulder pad, so you can’t pack the bag too heavily without straining shoulder and neck muscles. Read more…

The Kenneth Cole bag isn’t overly expensive — just a few dollars more than the Timbuk2 bag — and its neutral design suits men and women.

Newhey - Waterproof Messenger Bag

The Newhey – Waterproof Messenger Bag has many of the same features as the less-expensive Manificent bag. It’s also made of water-resistant waxed canvas and has a zippered interior pocket that protects your laptop from inclement weather. The Newhey resembles a bookbag; its leather straps conceal strong magnetic clips that don’t pop open when the bag is full.

The interior pocket for a laptop is well-padded, but there are only two small pockets sewn inside the main compartment. The Newhey bag has the same spacious capacity as the Manificent, and its only real flaw is the strap’s non-cushioned shoulder pad. However, it does have a very sturdy leather briefcase handle for carrying the bag when it’s too heavy for your shoulders.

KROSER - Laptop Bag

KROSER is known for manufacturing budget-priced laptop bags and backpacks. The KROSER – Laptop Bag has high consumer ratings on Amazon, but we found it to be inferior to all the other bags we tested. It’s more of a lightweight briefcase than it is a messenger bag, although it does have the requisite shoulder strap with a surprisingly well-cushioned shoulder pad. It’s made of a canvas-like polyester that KROSER claims is waterproof. We tested it, and water did indeed bead up and roll off.

The interior pocket designated for a laptop isn’t padded and is divided from a second pocket by a thin piece of vinyl. Unlike the other canvas bags, the KROSER bag doesn’t expand, so we were hard pressed to fit more than the laptop and a couple of books. Kroser’s clips and zippers are cheaply constructed. For $20, we can understand why it’s popular, but this is not a durable bag for heavy-duty use.

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Gene Gerrard , Writer

Gene has written about a wide variety of topics for too many years to count. He's been a professional chef, cooking-appliance demonstrator, playwright, director, editor of accountancy and bank-rating books, Houdini expert and dog lover (still is). When he's not writing for Your Best Digs, he's performing as a magician at the Magic Castle in Hollywood.

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15 best laptop travel bags & backpacks for 2024

As someone who is lucky to be able to work from anywhere in the world, I understand the importance of having a good laptop travel bag.

Finding the right laptop travel bag for your needs and individual style can be tricky – but my guide is here to make light work of carrying everything you need.

Whether you want a travel laptop backpack for a one-off business trip or would like to find a bag to use on a daily basis, I’m sure that the one for you will be listed here somewhere. 

From Scandi-style, sporty backpacks to businesslike briefcases or comfortable, geek-chic messenger bags, I’ve picked out 15 of the best laptop travel bags.

There’s something here for everyone, no matter how big or small your budget is. Nor what sort of style or colour appeals to you most. 

Continue reading to discover the best laptop bags and backpacks for travel, based on my own personal favourites and recommendations from fellow travellers.

Author Bio: Jessie Moore

Jessie Moore is a luxury travel expert with years of experience travelling the world to find the best destinations, hotels and adventures.

1. Nordace Siena backpack

Best for: A glamorous look

Buy here: Amazon

If subtle colours are your thing, then you’ll love the Nordace Siena. This backpack comes in pastel shades of blue or pink, or you can choose a gorgeous gold for a more glamorous look. 

I love the rectangular look and the beauty of this pack is more than skin deep. It’s got a 19 litre capacity to hold all you need. There’s also adjustable ergonomic shoulder straps and an anti-theft rear pocket. 

2. Solo Duane Convertible Briefcase

Best for: A convertible briefcase

Buy here: John Lewis , Amazon

When you’d prefer a travel laptop bag that isn’t a backpack at all, this convertible briefcase style bag is perfect. I like that it can look nothing like a backpack, yet can be converted to one whenever you like for easy carrying. 

This briefcase bag has compartments for a tablet and a laptop that’s up to 15.6 inches in size, and has a spacious storage compartment for stationery, cables, books and so on. There’s also a couple of handy exterior pockets for smaller items. 

3. Timbuk2 Division Laptop Backpack 

Best for: Reflective detailing

If you want to ensure you’re seen when heading home from work, the airport or the gym after dark, then you’ll appreciate the reflective trim on this Timbuk2 Division backpack. It’s another contender as the best travel laptop backpack with a water bottle pocket too. 

Compression straps to the outer give this backpack a streamlined look even when it’s full to the brim. While the design means it looks equally at home in the boardroom or when you’re taking a break away from work and everyday life. 

4. Antler Chelsea backpack

Best for: Suitcase compatibility

Buy here: Antler , John Lewis , Amazon

This travel bag with a laptop compartment comes from one of the best brands in the business. I’m a big fan of Antler, as they manage to make practical bags look impossibly stylish.

It comes in a range of neutral and stylish colours, and has a sleeve for placing it over a rolling case with a telescopic handle.

Other great features include a water bottle pocket, a front section with a key clip and card slots, a 16.5 inch laptop sleeve and compression straps to help you pack neatly. 

5. Rains Backpack Mini 

Best for: Wet weather

There’s a good reason why this Rains backpack is so-called. These waterproof travel bags for laptops are ideal for protecting your precious tech during wet weather.

If, like me, you can’t bear to be parted from your smartphone, you’ll be pleased to know that there’s a quick access pocket to store this safely in. 

A selection of colours are available, including some subtle, slightly shimmery metallic shades. This one can accommodate a 13 or 15 inch laptop. 

6. Herschel Supply Unisex Tech Daypack Backpack

Best for: Slick minimalism

If you want a laptop travel bag for all occasions, I’d really recommend this top quality one from Herschel as a great place to start. It’s sleek, with a minimalist look that is equally suited to leisure or business travel.

A smart pinstripe lining ensures it’s never dull, and it has a soft grab handle to the top as well as backpack straps. 

This travel laptop backpack comes in several colours and has some great practical features. These include a front section with key clips and organisational pockets, plus cases for a 16 inch tablet and a laptop. 

7. Fjallraven Unisex Kånken Laptop 17″ backpack

Best for: Sporty types

For a more sporty look, I’d recommend this Scandi-style laptop backpack from Fjallraven. It’s ideally suited to everyday activities, and has a more casual look than other laptop travel bags. You can go monochrome with this one, or add a pop of bold colour. 

You can carry this Fjallraven backpack via twin grab handles at the top or the backpack straps. Weighing only half a kilo, this is a lightweight, casual and classic choice that’s ideal for active types. 

8. Harber London Slim Leather Folio Laptop Case No. 7

Best for: City slickers

You don’t have to carry your laptop around in a backpack or briefcase. Instead, a smart real leather folio case could be just the (travel) ticket – I adore the sleek, sophisticated look of this option.

Available in tan, black, navy or a delicious shade of chocolate brown, this is the ideal solution for city slickers. 

This is one classy case, being made in Spain by skilled craftspersons. It has anti-snag teeth on the zipper to protect items like a silk scarf, and has a felt lining for added laptop protection and padding. 

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9. AmazonBasics Shoulder Bag Carrying Case 

Best for: Budget buy

When you want a men’s or women’s travel laptop bag on a budget, this one from AmazonBasics does everything you need it to and more. It comes in classic black, and a range of sizes so you can fit your tech inside snugly. 

You can carry this as a shoulder bag or briefcase, and the 600 denier polyester gives adequate protection for your computer. Plenty of pockets for storage might just seal the deal.

10. Estarer Laptop Messenger Bag 17 -17.3 Inch

Best for: An industrial look

If you prefer more of an industrial look, this messenger bag from Estarer aims to please. It’s available in cool or deeper grey with tan leather-look trim. The large laptop section can accommodate a computer up to 17.3 inches in size. 

You can wear this bag cross-body style, which is the more ergonomic choice, or grab it on the move for carrying via the shoulder strap. I love that there are plenty of pockets here for organising everything from your passport or business cards to a water bottle. 

11. BanGe Business Smart Backpack

Best for: Withstanding scuffs

Laptop bags that can withstand a few knocks and scrapes don’t come any better than this BanGe backpack. The tough outer shell is both waterproof and abrasion resistant, and it offers lots of space for larger and smaller items. 

This bag is also set up for charging via USB, and has a sleeve for securing it onto your main suitcase while waiting at the airport. It’s available in contemporary grey or classic black. 

12. AmazonBasics Laptop and Tablet Case, Black

Best for: Affordable versatility

Another top option from AmazonBasics is this tablet and laptop case. This one is also very affordable, and is styled like a messenger bag and briefcase in one. Two sizes are available. 

There is a strap here for attaching the bag to your main luggage, and you can also remove the shoulder strap when required.

It’s lightweight yet practical and tough, and looks the part whether you’re a student or on your way to the boardroom. 

13. LANDICI Laptop Bag Carry case 

Best for: All the colours

If you want to get hold of a bag for your laptop in your favourite hue, then I’d suggest looking at this one first. It comes in pink, blue, red and purple as well as monochrome shades, and also has a very attractive price tag. 

The bag has a scratch resistant finish, and comes with a padded laptop sleeve to protect costly equipment. There’s also a range of inner and outer pockets and compartments, providing great storage for all your things – making this one of the best travel laptop bags available.

14. New Crew Backpack 22

Best for: Multi-tasking

Buy here: Lulu Lemon

The 22 litre backpack from New Crew makes the perfect laptop travel case. It comes in smart shades of silver, caramel or black.

I think its design is really clever as it’s been made to take along all you need for the day – from your laptop to your gym kit and a water bottle. 

The handy compartments and pockets include a padded laptop sleeve, a large interior section, a water bottle pocket and an outer pocket for items you need to grab on the go.

Why buy a bag for occasional use when you could get one to see you through everyday life? 

15. Targus Classic Clamshell Business Travel Laptop Bag

Best for: Affordable luxury

This slick travel laptop bag is among the best laptop bags for business travel or leisure trips. Yet again, the affordable price tag comes as a pleasant surprise.

It looks and works like something more expensive, and has an inside strap to secure your laptop in place while on the move. 

The Targus clamshell bag is great when you need to find items quickly, as there are different sized storage pockets within for storing all your kit.

It comes with an adjustable, detachable shoulder strap and a trolley strap for securing to a suitcase. The padding also provides plenty of protection for your laptop. 

If you have any travel laptop bag favourites of your own, do let me know in the comments. In the market for a new laptop? Read my guide to the best travel laptops .

Jessie is a luxury travel expert with years of experience travelling the world to find the best destinations, hotels and adventures.

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Pocket Wanderings is a luxury travel and lifestyle brand run by London-based content creator, Jessie Moore. Here you’ll find a community of fellow wanderlusters and adventurers.

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tomtoc Laptop Messenger Bag, Multi-Functional Shoulder Bag Fits Up to 16 inch MacBook Pro, Durable Water-resistant Fabric, Lightweight Carrying bag for Work Casual Travel

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Product details, about this item.

• Classic Messenger Bag: Designed for those who prefer a simple, functional bag and those who are wanting an EDC messenger bag; Our simple utilitarian design, practical capacity, reasonable partitions, durable fabric, impeccable craftsmanship, making it a classic and timeless messenger bag that is perfect for daily work, study, activities or weekend trips, etc; External dimensions: 16.54'' x 11.81'' x 4.72''; Shoulder strap length: 27.56''-55.12''
• A Messenger Bag You Can Rely On: Designed to standout from the daily bag. We spared no expense, this bag is made up of Cordura ballistic nylon material, which is incredibly durable, wear-resistant, water-resistant, with a distinct heritage vibe, yet unmistakably modern, making it a comprehensive laptop messenger for any occasion.
• Practical and Organized: The organization of the bag is simple and effective, it can hold all your daily essentials effortlessly. Features a quite generous laptop compartment for up to 16-inch MacBook Pro/ 15-inch MacBook Air M3 A3114, a spacious main compartment to organize your books, earphones, thin coats, and 4 small lined pockets to keep your wallet, water/ umbrella, etc
• Convenient and Safe: Two front pockets under the flap are accessible from the outside – one spacious front pocket can fit your Nintendo Switch, mobile phones and another quick access pocket for easy reach of your most-used items such as credit cards, AirPods Pro. YKK buckle and strong velcro closure create a secure space for your valuables.
• Comfortable: Anyone would be delighted to use the daily messenger bag, it has thickened shoulder straps for optimal ergonomic comfort with snap buckle design allowing for quick-release. The extra top handle, allows various carrying options, single shoulder, crossbody, or handheld, all up to you!

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From the brand

Shoulder Bag/Laptop Backpack

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Protective Bag for Laptop

Protective Case for Switch

Protective Case for Tablet

Product Description

Large Capacity

Features a quite generous laptop compartment, a spacious main compartment and 4 lined pockets to hold all your tech device, accessories and daily essentials effortlessly.

Ballistic Nylon Material

this bag is made up of Cordura ballistic nylon material, which is incredibly durable, wear-resistant, water-resistant, with a distinct heritage vibe, yet unmistakably modern.

Smart Organization

A protective laptop compartment fits up to a 16-inch MacBook Pro, and a spacious main compartment to organize your books, thin coats, water bottle, umbrella, etc.

Convenient Front Storage

1 big front pocket for easy reach of your essentials and large enough to fit up to Nintendo Switch & 1 small side easy-access pocket with key chain for small items.

Made of durable YKK zipper for secure and long-lasting usage.

Thickened shoulder straps

The thickened design greatly increases the comfort of using the sling bag and reduces the pressure of the backpack on your shoulders.

Spill-Resistant

Water-resistant Cordura ballistic nylon fabric offers protection in light rain.

Humanized handle design

Humanized design, can be used as a shoulder bag or a handbag to meet your various needs

tomtoc Classic Laptop Messenger Bag

Designed for those who prefer a simple, functional bag and those who are wanting an EDC messenger bag; Our simple utilitarian design, practical capacity, reasonable partitions, durable fabric, and impeccable craftsmanship, make it a classic and timeless messenger bag that is perfect for daily work, study, activities or weekend trips.

Specification

Outer Dimension: 16.54'' x 11.81'' x 4.72''; Laptop Dimension: 8.66'' x 14.96''; Tablet Dimension: 7.87'' x 12.6''

Applicable Computer Models: Fits Up to 16-inch MacBook Pro

Shoulder strap length: 70cm-140cm

Weight: 1.32lb/ 0.6kg

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tomtoc Explorer-H52 Messenger Bag Review

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• Product Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 16.54 x 11.81 x 4.72 inches; 1.76 Pounds
• Item model number ‏ : ‎ T22M1D1
• Department ‏ : ‎ unisex-adult
• Date First Available ‏ : ‎ September 2, 2021
• ASIN ‏ : ‎ B09F8TSVP6
• Best Sellers Rank: #935 in Laptop Messenger & Shoulder Bags

Customer reviews

Customer Reviews, including Product Star Ratings help customers to learn more about the product and decide whether it is the right product for them.

To calculate the overall star rating and percentage breakdown by star, we don’t use a simple average. Instead, our system considers things like how recent a review is and if the reviewer bought the item on Amazon. It also analyzed reviews to verify trustworthiness.

Customers say

Customers like the quality, material and appearance of the handbag. For example, they mention it's useful for daily necessities, has a few pockets and a nice key fob strap. That said, opinions are mixed on size.

AI-generated from the text of customer reviews

Customers are satisfied with the quality of the handbag. They mention that it is perfect, useful for daily necessities and travel, and has a few pockets and a nice key fob strap. It holds a laptop and iPad with plenty of room for other necessities.

"...The partition is suitable for carry on to a plane. Several small pockets for personal stuffs and passport..." Read more

"Perfect man purse. Holds my tablet,documents, internal compartment pockets are so useful to organize small items. The handle is very useful...." Read more

"...It's a simple bag with a few pockets and a nice key fob strap. The bag would be better with a velcro strap to hold the laptop in place...." Read more

"...Perfect size for my needs. Holds a laptop and iPad with plenty of room for other necessities . I’m happy with this purchase." Read more

Customers are satisfied with the material of the handbag. They mention that it is well-made, solid, and well-designed.

"The quality is good and I really like the design.The partition is suitable for carry on to a plane...." Read more

"...The shoulder pad is thick and well designed .. the only thing I would change is add an external expandable water bottle pocket." Read more

"For the money, this is a well made bag with some nice details and comfortable strap. It's a simple bag with a few pockets and a nice key fob strap...." Read more

"...good size and very good materials ...." Read more

Customers are satisfied with the appearance of the handbag. They mention that it has a nice design, is very nice, and is the perfect man purse. They also appreciate the few pockets and the nice key fob strap.

" Perfect man purse . Holds my tablet,documents, internal compartment pockets are so useful to organize small items. The handle is very useful...." Read more

"...It's a simple bag with a few pockets and a nice key fob strap . The bag would be better with a velcro strap to hold the laptop in place...." Read more

" Very nice !!..." Read more

" nice design ...." Read more

Customers are satisfied with the fit of the handbag. They mention that it fits in the main bag very tight, with some nice details and a comfortable strap. It is a perfect man purse that holds their tablet, documents, and internal compartment.

"Perfect man purse. Holds my tablet ,documents, internal compartment pockets are so useful to organize small items. The handle is very useful...." Read more

"For the money, this is a well made bag with some nice details and comfortable strap . It's a simple bag with a few pockets and a nice key fob strap...." Read more

"...But it does fit in the main bag, very tight ." Read more

"... Comfy to wear padding on shoulder strap ...." Read more

Customers are mixed about the size of the handbag. Some mention it's the perfect size for their needs, while others say that it'll barely fit a 16-inch MacBook Pro. The laptop slot is a bit tight, and the rest of the bag is useless as it'd be form-fitting.

"...If they can make it a little bigger it would be even better. Bag is a bit small . Smaller than I expected" Read more

"I love this bag. Perfect size for my needs . Holds a laptop and iPad with plenty of room for other necessities. I’m happy with this purchase." Read more

"...Pro of 16" And I haven't try that, but my 15.5" Dell does not fit on the laptop sleeve . But it does fit in the main bag, very tight." Read more

"its small and simple, just what i wanted" Read more

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

Amar Hussain

Senior Content Contributor

775 Published Articles

Countries Visited: 63 U.S. States Visited: 9

Keri Stooksbury

Editor-in-Chief

32 Published Articles 3120 Edited Articles

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Things To Consider With Messenger Bags

1. best for retro styling, 2. best 2-in-1 backpack and messenger bag combo, 3. most water-resistant choice for bad weather, 4. best satchel-style messenger bag, 5. military-style messenger bag, 6. a slim and compact vintage messenger bag, 7. genuine leather messenger bag, 8. classic canvas messenger bag, 1. best for fashionable commuters, 2. eco-friendly leather messenger bag, 3. best bag for use in wet weather, 4. retro-style satchel bag, 5. messenger bag for discerning travelers, 6. most unique-looking messenger bag, 7. best big messenger bag, 8. designer messenger bag, final thoughts.

We may be compensated when you click on product links, such as credit cards, from one or more of our advertising partners. Terms apply to the offers below. See our Advertising Policy for more about our partners, how we make money, and our rating methodology. Opinions and recommendations are ours alone.

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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The 13 Best Laptop Bags of 2024

Protect your laptop while traveling with these backpacks, duffle bags, and carry-ons.

In This Article

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Travel + Leisure / Kristin Kempa

A laptop is often the priciest tech investment travelers will pack for their journeys. And, with the rise of digital nomadism and working vacations, more and more travelers face the same dilemma: how to protect their laptops while on the road. This is where a durable, padded laptop bag comes in handy. The best ones usually feature a separate, cushioned compartment and water-resistance, all while remaining easily accessible on the go. 

We researched and even tested dozens of styles, including carry-ons, totes, duffels, briefcases, and weekenders, and we selected Patagonia's Refugio backpack as our top pick. What won us over is its combination of smart features, lightweight design, and beautiful style — all of which are essential for any leisure or business traveler carrying a laptop. The backpack is a multifunctional powerhouse that has you (and your valuables) covered regardless of the mode of transportation or destination.

Best Overall

Patagonia refugio 26l daypack.

Backcountry

Why We Love It: It features a removable laptop sleeve that has its own separate, designated pocket.

What to Consider: The main compartment doesn’t have extra pockets or slots.

A good travel laptop bag should accommodate your needs in various situations. It should be your go-to bag for everything from camping adventures to business trips, and few bags fit the bill like Patagonia's Refugio backpack.

This beloved style has been updated several times through the years, and its latest version is certainly the best to use as a laptop bag. The reason? The bag comes with a detachable padded laptop sleeve featuring a zippered compartment. This keeps your device extra protected and gives you the flexibility to store the sleeve in other bags or simply use the compartment instead for something else. Additionally, the laptop sleeve closes with a snap button and has an expandable mesh pocket where you can place a charger, pair of earbuds, cords, or even a small notepad.

The backpack's main compartment has a padded bottom — a rarity for a backpack — and fits approximately a weekend's worth of clothing and accessories. Store your documents and other small items in the zippered front pocket, and place your water bottles or drinks in the elastic side slots. We also appreciated the ergonomic design of the straps: they’re padded and feature a chest band, which is placed way above the chest line and is much more comfortable this way (especially for women). The Refugio is available in nine color options that vary from bold to classic — so the one in black, for example, could work for business travelers seeking a more formal option.

The Details: 18 x 12 x 6.5 inches | Recycled polyester | 1.6 pounds | Fits up to 15-inch laptop

Best Backpack

Solo re:define backpack.

Why We Love It: It has a lot of storage space.

What to Consider: It only comes in black and gray.

This may look like a small backpack, but we actually found it to be more like Mary Poppins' magic bag as the capacity just keeps on going when we put it to the test. The padded tech sleeve can fit a 15.6-inch laptop and a tablet (there are two separate slots), while the main compartment has plenty of room for shoes, toiletries, and a change of clothes (which also makes this a great carry-on or overnight bag option). Another feature we love is the excellent organization: there are two water bottle pockets, a battery slot that enables you to charge your devices on the go, a key leash, and plenty more small pockets for all the essentials. 

This backpack also aced our wear-and-tear tests. It’s made from recycled plastic bottles, and the exterior is treated with an anti-microbial coating that’s easy to clean with wipes, keeping it looking like new. Business and leisure travelers will get plenty of mileage out of this sturdy and sleek Solo backpack.

The Details: 18 x 13 x 7 inches | Recycled PET Polyester | 1.43 pounds | Fits 15.6 inch laptop

Best Wheeled

Tumi oxford compact carry-on.

Why We Love It: It is an excellent under-the-seat option.

What to Consider: The media pockets may be difficult to zip if the bag is too full.

Tumi's mini carry-on is a good choice for travelers heading for a quick business trip who want to travel light and upgrade to a premium option. The bag is designed to fit under the seat in front of you and can fit a couple of days’ worth of clothing, including a laptop and a travel tablet. The designated media pocket is at the front of the bag, making it very convenient to access. We did find the laptop sleeve was difficult to zip when the bag was packed with a heavier jacket (and the case needed to be squished under the seat), but if you don't overpack it, it works without a glitch. Then, in terms of construction and maneuverability, this Tumi carry-on scored a perfect grade as it moved flawlessly on both four and two wheels with little to no resistance. 

The Details: 16 x 14 x 8 inches | Nylon | 6.6 pounds

Best Sustainable

Troubadour orbis 1-pocket backpack.

Why We Love It: This bag's many pockets and slots are its strongest feature.

What to Consider: The material is not very breathable. 

When it comes to padding, this backpack is in a league of its own. We found the cushioned straps and back panel made it the most comfortable backpack we have ever carried. Additionally, the padding provides extra protection for your laptop or tablet. This bag has a tapered design on top, which some may find challenging to pack, but the sides have fabric expanders to help with that. 

The exterior is sleek and minimalist, with leather accents that elevate its look. Inside, there are plenty of pockets to keep travelers organized, including a designated media pocket that can easily fit a 17-inch laptop. But we’re perhaps most impressed with the bag’s sustainability — it’s made from recycled polyester (including the lining) so that it can be recycled and reused over and over.

The Details: 11.8 x 16.5 x 5.5 inches | Recycled polyester | 3.3 pounds | Fits up to 17-inch laptop

Best Weekender

Away everywhere bag.

This may be a weekender, but we found it was able to fit more than just a couple days worth of clothing and accessories during our tests. It’s also designed like a suitcase with a clamshell-style opening, so packing and accessing your belongings is super convenient. 

Keep your laptop and an additional tech device in the padded pocket with a magnetic opening, and stow your wallet or passport holder in the small outer pocket secured with a strap. There are also plenty more pockets and compartments inside, so rest assured that your belongings will not end up in a messy pile. While this Away weekender does come with a shoulder strap, it’s not padded, and carrying the bag by the handles can get a little uncomfortable after a while. But this is why the trolley strap is handy — just slip the backpack right over your carry-on’s telescoping handle instead.

The Details: 20.9 x 11.8 x 9.4 inches | Nylon, leather | 3.8 pounds | Fits up to 15-inch laptop

Best Duffel

Dagne dover landon carryall bag.

Dagne Dover

Why We Love It: The bag has several accessories that help organize your belongings.

What to Consider: The fabric may show stains and spills easily.

We found this to be the ultimate travel duffel that also happens to be the perfect bag to store your laptop as it has a roomy media compartment that closes with a Velcro strap, so it stays flat when not in use. This style comes in five sizes, but only the medium, large, and extra large can fit a laptop. The top zipper opens wide so packing is a breeze, and inside are multiple pockets for smaller items. The great thing about this duffel is it has an additional shoe zip bag, a mesh pouch for cables and earbuds, and a detachable key leash to help you stay organized.

You can also attach the duffel to wheeled luggage thanks to a trolley sleeve on its backside. The neoprene material is durable and held up very well during our wear and tear tests. However, neoprene is known to show creases with time. 

The Details: 14.5 x 7.5 x 9 inches | Neoprene | 2.08 pounds | Fits a 13-inch laptop in a medium

Bandolier Tote Bag

Why We Love It: It’s elegant, lightweight, and perfect for everyday use.

What to Consider: The bag has an open top.

While this chic leather tote is the ideal laptop bag for travel, it is also a great commuter bag. Its pebbled leather holds up excellently to daily use, and its timeless silhouette makes it perfect for the office, subway, or restaurant. 

The size is also convenient for frequent use, as it can hold a water bottle or cup, notepads, cosmetics, sunglasses, and a jacket. The laptop sleeve accommodates devices up to 15 inches long and closes with a snap. We would love a secure top closure, especially if using this bag as a personal item, since the bag features an open top. However, if easy and quick access to your belongings is a priority day to day, then this is definitely the right tote for you.

This carry-all scored high in portability and convenience, too, as its handles are long enough to carry as both a shoulder bag and handbag for an added touch of versatility.

The Details: 18 x 12 x 6 inches | Leather | Fits up to 15-inch laptop

Best Organization

Quince revive nylon large tote.

Why We Love It: It's an excellent all-season option to keep you organized on the road.

What to Consider: While it has a magnetic top closure, it doesn’t zip closed.

Thanks to a combination of smart storage organization and a spacious interior, we found this carry-all was a total dream when it comes to packing. With so many pockets, dividers, and compartments, it's easy to see and access keys, lip balm, shoes, travel documents, and your laptop, for which there’s a padded pocket with a Velcro closure.

This Quince bag is also quite versatile — travelers can easily use it as an everyday bag, a weekender, or even a diaper bag (the nylon fabric is super easy to clean). The latest, updated version of the tote has a magnetic closure, providing a little extra security for your belongings.

The Details: 13 x 17 x 5 inches | Nylon | 1.76 pounds | Fits up to 15-inch laptop

Best Briefcase

Samsonite xenon 3.0 gusset briefcase.

Why We Love It: It’s lightweight and features many pockets and slots. 

What to Consider: It’s not water-resistant.

Samsonite's Xenon briefcase is extremely popular among business travelers for its practical design, high-quality construction, and excellent storage capacity. The front panel unzips to reveal several flat pockets for documents, pens, a tablet, a wallet, and a passport. Inside, a padded compartment protects your laptop from shocks and drops, while the rest of your business accessories, folders, chargers, and cables can be stored in the roomy pockets next to it. Pack as much as you want because this briefcase is super lightweight and has a trolley band on the back. You can carry it as a shoulder bag using the removable and adjustable padded strap, or simply tote it as a handbag.

The Details: 16.5 x 12.75 x 4 inches | Nylon | 2.4 pounds

Best Designer

Smythson lightweight slim briefcase in panama.

Smythson 

Why We Love It: It’s made from high-quality leather and has a classic design.

What to Consider: It won’t fit much besides a laptop.

This Smythson briefcase is a sophisticated way to elevate your travel look and protect your laptop or tablet while on the go. The highlight is the sleek design, which is ideal for the airport, office, and beyond. It’s even formal enough to use as an everyday laptop bag if your work environment requires it. The high-quality grosgrain leather has a beautiful texture, adding depth to the minimalist silhouette. 

Inside, travelers can fit a 15-inch laptop, notebook, pens, and travel documents thanks to an additional zippered pocket. The removable shoulder and trolley straps are additionally helpful for traveling. The Details: 15.5 x 10.6 x 2.5 inches | Material | Leather | Fits up to 15-inch laptop

Best Budget

Lenovo laptop shoulder bag.

Why We Love It: It’s compact-yet-spacious and lightweight.

What to Consider: It’s not quite as durable as other options on our list.

You don't have to invest a lot of money to get your hands on a high-quality laptop bag. This Lenovo briefcase costs less than $20 but delivers the same features and high-quality construction as many pricier options. The polyester exterior has a water-repellent coating that protects your belongings from the elements, and all the exterior pockets are zippered. Depending on the size you choose, the shoulder bag fits laptops or tablets up to 12, 15.6, or 17 inches. However, the interior can accommodate other items like cords, chargers, and earbuds. Weighing in at under a pound, it is the lightest laptop bag we've seen on the market so far.

The Details: 14.2 x 0.8 x 9.8 inches | Water-repellent polyester | 12.8 ounces | Fits a 12-inch device

Best Water-resistant

Antler chelsea daybag.

Antler  

Why We Love It: The laptop compartment is accessed separately.

What to Consider: The shoulder straps aren’t padded.

Predicting what Mother Nature will throw at you while traveling is impossible, but you can always prepare. Antler's elegant Chelsea backpack was definitely made with travel through the different climate zones in mind. Cut from thick, water-resistant nylon, it has a structured silhouette and durable construction that protects your belongings. The material is well-made and holds up great to drops and spills. 

The backpack has a separate laptop compartment designed for a 13-inch device, but we were able to fit a 14-inch laptop inside with room to spare. The lining is soft and velvety and feels like scratch-resistant jewelry box fabric. The main compartment has a clamshell opening, which makes it convenient to pack. Speaking of packing, we were able to fit a few days worth of clothing and a pair of shoes thanks to the compression straps and a removable zippered pouch. We like that one of the side pockets expands to accommodate larger water bottles, and we love that the available colors match the shades of Antler's carry-ons, so travelers can color-coordinate their luggage.

The Details: 14.57 x 10.24 x 4.72 inches | Nylon | 1.32 pounds | Fits up to 13-inch laptop

Best Messenger

Estarer computer messenger bag.

Why We Love It: The canvas exterior has a water-repellent coating.

What to Consider: It’s on the larger, bulkier side.

Whether you're headed to work, class, or the airport, a classic messenger bag is ideal for carrying your laptop and other everyday necessities. This one from Estarer has enough room for the essentials, plus clothing for an overnight stay as well. The top flap covers a large zippered compartment separated in two by a padded divider (you can place your laptop on one side and everything else on the other). The messenger features over a dozen pockets and slots for cards, pens, documents, and much more, so it's easy to stay organized. The bag boasts a buckle closure for extra security, and the shoulder strap has a padded leather panel that looks chic and makes carrying it a breeze.

The Details: 18.5 x 13.78 x 5.91 inches | Water-resistant canvas | 2.7 pounds | Fits up to 17-inch laptop

Tips for Buying a Laptop Bag

Determine your ideal size.

Since laptops come in multiple sizes, so do laptop bags. The most common sizes accommodate devices that measure up to 14, 16, or 18 inches. 

If you own a 14-inch laptop, don't be tempted to buy a much larger bag (usually, anything more than half an inch is considered too big) because it won't protect your device against bumps and drops that well. And if you prefer a larger bag to also accommodate things like clothes and gear, consider buying an additional laptop case for extra protection.

Look for built-in organization

Most travelers who carry a laptop also need room to store additional tech accessories such as chargers, cables, headphones, and memory cards. Some laptop users may even travel with an extra keyboard and mouse. That's why your laptop bag should have a well-designed interior with multiple pockets, slots, and compartments. This will keep your belongings organized and easily accessible whenever you need them. If you plan on packing clothes and toiletries in the same bag, then look for styles with at least two roomy compartments, ideally zippered, so your laptop and tech gadgets are protected from accidental spills.

Consider the best material for your needs

Laptop bags are made from a variety of materials ranging from leather to synthetic fabrics to PVC, and each has its pros and cons. Natural materials like canvas are lightweight, but they easily absorb moisture. However, some companies treat the exterior canvas with a water-proof coating that adds a water-resistant, easy-to-clean layer.

Synthetic fabrics such as nylon and polyester are a preferred material for backpacks. They are lightweight and flexible, so you can easily place them under the seat, and they provide protection from the elements. On the flip side, nylon and polyester are very thin, so look for bags with additional padding in the laptop compartment. 

Leather backpacks, messengers, and totes all look beautiful and provide good protection. However, leather is not water-resistant, and the material tends to be heavier.

Finally, hardshell bags and carry-ons are an excellent option for those who like to travel light — after all, traveling with a carry-on suitcase with a laptop compartment means you don’t need to carry a separate laptop bag.

Generally, laptops are measured by the distance between the diagonal edges of their screens. However, this size does not account for any additional material that encases the screen. So when choosing a bag, close your laptop and measure it diagonally from edge to edge — you will probably end up with a number that’s higher by a quarter-to-full inch than its screen size. Considering this number, choose a laptop bag that can accommodate it. 

If your laptop is thicker than the average computer, check the width of the bag's laptop compartment to ensure it can fit comfortably inside.

Most airlines' carry-on allowance includes a personal item that can be stored under the seat in front of you. So, many travelers pack a laptop into that bag — it’s easily accessible and always with you. However, if you know you won't need your laptop and your hardshell carry-on provides good protection for fragile items, you can also store it in there and place it in the overhead bin during a flight.

We would never recommend you store your laptop in checked luggage because it might get damaged, lost, or even stolen during your trip. Baggage handlers aren’t exactly known for being delicate, and with more than 50 percent of travelers admitting to having luggage lost by an airline, you’ll want to avoid storing expensive items in your checked luggage. Additionally, if you're headed on a multi-leg trip, it's a good idea to have your laptop with you in case you need to use it.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

Contributor Dobrina Zhekova is a lifestyle journalist with over a decade of editorial experience in print and digital media in the U.S. and Europe. For this story, she worked with T+L's editors and testers to determine the best laptop bags after a series of real-world and lab tests, along with additional product research as necessary.

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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.

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The Best Laptop Tote Bags

By Kaitlyn Wells

No professional wardrobe is complete without a great-looking bag to carry all of your gear. For people who have to lug around a computer, laptop bags are a more polished, grown-up option than a backpack, and they offer more storage space than a briefcase.

After years of testing, we’ve landed on six favorites: a water-repellant polyester tote with clever pockets ; a well-padded tote that can also be used as a cross-body messenger bag ; a refined leather tote with a zippered laptop compartment ; a splurge-worthy leather bag, with internal organization, that you’ll have forever ; a minimalist vegan tote that’s extra-roomy ; and a budget faux leather bag with a dedicated laptop compartment .

The research

For laptops up to 13 inches, for 15-inch laptops (and larger), how we picked and tested, the competition, a durable, water-repellent polyester tote: bellroy tokyo tote second edition.

Bellroy Tokyo Tote Second Edition

A sturdy and smart commuter.

This tough yet polished laptop tote bag is thoughtfully designed, with features like internal popout bottle pockets and leakproof zippers. But its durable fabric shell is abrasive and may make some sweaters and blouses pill.

Buying Options

With delayed shipping (limited colors)

Who should get this: Anyone who prefers something more casual than a briefcase but still wants to look pulled together.

Maximum laptop size: 13 inches

Why it’s great: The Bellroy Tokyo Tote Second Edition is a good-looking, well-made piece that transitions perfectly from the coffee shop to the conference room. It strikes a happy medium for professionals who appreciate a polished look and want some protection for their devices but don’t want to flout a semi-casual dress code.

The Bellroy tote we tested is made of a fine-weave polyester (created from recycled water bottles) that’s durable and water-resistant. This bag is ideal for people who need something that will survive scuffs, drops, stains, and routine overpacking. Commuters caught in the rain will also be comforted to know that the laptop tote’s shell repelled water well when we held it under a running faucet. And the exterior zip pocket offers an airtight seal to keep water from destroying valuables.

When we tested a previous generation of the Tokyo Tote, our panelists’ favorite features were, of all things, the interior pop-out, magnetic pockets (for holding a water bottle upright inside the bag). The Second Edition has the same pockets they loved. When the pockets aren’t in use, you can just push them inward, and they spring back into the tote’s frame. These internal pockets are located on both sides of the bag, and they’re also big enough to fit a pair of flip-flops or dirty gym clothes you want to keep separate from the rest of your stuff.

The Bellroy Tokyo Tote Second Edition also has a large exterior zip pocket, plus two interior pockets (one with a key clip) that are large enough to hold a Field Notes book , a smartphone, sunglasses , or a wrapped USB cord. And the padded laptop section provides ample protection and snugly holds laptops with screens up to 13 inches. The carry handles have a 12-inch drop, so they’re longer and more comfortable to use than the handles on any other bag we recommend. Those handles are padded for added comfort, and they’re coated with no-skid rubber, to prevent the bag from sliding off your shoulder while you’re commuting.

Flaws but not dealbreakers: The Bellroy Tokyo Tote ’s durable shell is similar to that of the now-discontinued sibling tote we previously tested. This shell can be abrasive against delicate work clothing, and in previous testing, the tote’s exterior pilled knitted sweaters and snagged blouses made of polyester blends. The new handles have softer edges that didn’t snag our shirts as much during testing. The straps also feature no-slip patches, which further reduce pilling at the shoulders (but not near the bust, where most pilling occurs during carry).

This laptop tote’s weave also attracts pet hair like a magnet. If you’ve got a furry friend at home, we don’t recommend the black version, which spotlights pet hair of every shade.

Dimensions: 14 by 18.5 by 5 inches Handle drop: 12 inches Weight: 1.4 pounds Warranty: three-year warranty Colors: black, navy, cream, green, bronze

A tote and messenger bag in one: Lo & Sons The O.G. 2

Lo & Sons The O.G. 2 (medium)

Utility player.

This nylon tote doubles as a messenger bag, works well for frequent flyers, and offers lots of organization and padded laptop protection. But its added functionality makes it the heaviest of our picks.

Who should get this: Commuters who like the look of a tote bag but prefer the functionality of a cross-body messenger.

Why it’s great: We love the nylon Lo & Sons The O.G. 2 (medium) for its versatility. It has a conveniently long crossbody strap and a variety of storage compartments, and it offers ample laptop protection. It’s the just-right blend of a tote and a messenger bag.

This bag grabbed our attention with touches like gleamy accent hardware, contrasting interior lining, plentiful pockets, and studded feet. The O.G. 2 features a three-color design consisting of a neutral exterior, which you can spice up with several fun interior colors. It also comes in medium and large sizes.

This laptop tote boasts a ton of organization: four large zip compartments, four slip pockets, two pen pockets, a laptop or document holder, a hidden shoe compartment, and a long key leash. Thanks to the bag’s concealed zipper design, half of its storage features are in an external compartment that’s hidden out of sight. We like to think that means subway thieves will overlook you when they’re hunting for an easy mark.

The O.G. 2 provides more laptop protection than any other tote we recommend. The laptop compartment, the exterior, and even the individual pockets are padded to shield electronics from cracks and dings.

This bag does a good job of keeping liquids at bay. It has tight seams, so spilled drinks won’t penetrate the base, unlike with its sibling, the Lo & Sons Seville Tote, in the Competition section .

The O.G. 2 model is the only laptop tote bag designed for travel that we recommend. Both the medium and large sizes should fit under most airplane seats. And the backside features a zippered trolley sleeve, so travelers can secure the bag over luggage handles.

And this tote is also one of two bags we recommend with a crossbody strap—our EaseGave Laptop Bag pick is the other. Each has a wide, thick strap, like a seatbelt, but we prefer The O.G. 2’s design, which consists of thicker hardware and a longer strap. The thicker slide adjuster ensures that the strap won’t suddenly become slack on your trek to work. Also, the longer strap—up to 7 inches longer than that of the competition—lets you adjust it to accommodate a wider variety of body sizes and heights. And we like that this bag allows you to carry it with the shorter handles, which are easier to grab and go.

Flaws but not dealbreakers: The slimish profile of the The O.G. 2 isn’t ideal for commuters who carry a ton of gear. The bag is cushiony, and the sides taper at the top, so the space is narrow. That also makes it harder to rummage in the bag and find what you need while you’re on the move.

At 2.6 pounds, this bag in medium is one of the heaviest we tested. Only the Dagne Dover Signature Tote (Classic), the Lo & Sons Seville Tote, and the Mosiso Laptop Tote Bag (all in the Competition section) were heavier, weighing from 2.7 to 3 pounds each. (Note: The large-size Lo & Sons O.G. 2 bag weighs slightly more, at 3 pounds.)

Some 14- and 15-inch laptops can fit inside the bag’s main compartment but don’t fit inside the padded laptop compartment.

Dimensions: 13.75 by 16.6 by 6.75 inches (medium); 14.25 by 16.5 by 6.75 inches (large) Handle drop: 9.5 inches (medium); 10 inches (large) Weight: 2.6 pounds (medium); 3 pounds (large) Warranty: one-year warranty Colors: black/gold/gray, black/gold/lavender, black/gold/camel, black/silver/lavender, black/silver/gray, black/gunmetal/gray, deep navy/gold/camel, gray/silver/azure

A sophisticated leather tote: Tory Burch Perry Triple-Compartment Tote

Tory Burch Perry Triple-Compartment Tote Bag

A refined open-top tote.

If you’re ready to invest in a high-quality bag, this pebbled leather tote offers style and sophistication. Though there is a dedicated laptop compartment that zippers closed, the rest of the bag stays open at the top.

Who should get this: People with a higher budget who want an upscale leather tote with a refined silhouette.

Why it’s great: The Tory Burch Perry Triple-Compartment Tote Bag is spendy, but for the price it delivers sophisticated styling, supple pebbled leather, and structured design. The stitching on ours was perfect and didn’t fray, the leather felt luxuriously smooth, and the upright design never slouched or tipped.

Since we first made the Perry a pick, it has been slightly redesigned; we have not tested the new model, but the minor changes appear to have made the updated bag even more functional than its predecessor. It is now an inch bigger and includes three small internal slip pockets.

The Perry has a dedicated laptop slot in its center, dividing the bag into two parts. We like that the division offers some organizational structure, which is hard to find in a high-end leather tote.

The laptop compartment zips shut and is large enough to hold a 13-inch model and maybe a thin document or two. The Perry’s compartment is also raised off the bottom of the bag, so if you mistakenly plop your bag on the ground, you won’t dent your laptop in the process.

The Perry is a dream to carry. The original version weighed 1.8 pounds, half as much as many other contenders we dismissed ; the new version is nearly the same weight, according to the manufacturer specs. But what really surprised us was that the Perry, despite its somewhat thin straps, was still comfortable enough to carry, packed with gear, for a full day of commuting.

Some of the priciest laptop tote bags we tried—including the over-$500 Lo & Sons Seville Tote , in the Competition section—aren’t leakproof. So we were pleasantly surprised to discover that the Tory Burch Perry tote is. In our tests, the burnished seams were reliably strong, neither buckling under a heavy load nor allowing spilled beverages in.

Flaws but not dealbreakers: Like most open-top bags we tested, the Perry doesn’t offer much protection from the elements. Only the laptop compartment has a zipper, so the bag doesn’t shield the rest of your stuff very well.

Also, the laptop compartment isn’t padded. But because it’s elevated off the bottom of the bag and isn’t exposed on either side, we’re not overly worried about a computer or tablet getting banged up while inside.

Dimensions: 14 by 5 by 11.6 inches Handle drop: 10 inches Weight: 1.8 pounds (previous version; current version is the same, according to manufacturer’s specs) Warranty: 30-day return policy Colors: black, clam shell, ivory, light umber, mint green, brick, feather gray, bay gray, natural

A classic leather tote to last a lifetime: Carl Friedrik Ashby Leather Tote

Carl Friedrik Ashby Leather Tote

An elegant forever bag.

Handmade in Italy, this leather tote looks and feels extra special, has plenty of room for your belongings, and zips securely across the top. It’s the priciest of our picks, but it is covered by a lifetime warranty.

Who should get this: Those in search of a timeless leather bag that’s only going to get better with age—and those willing to pay a premium for it.

Why it’s great: The Carl Friedrik Ashby Leather Tote is a bag that commands attention. This gorgeous leather tote is handmade in Italy, and though it’s the most expensive option we tested, it’s well worth the price. For about $650, you get a bag with unquestionable quality, beautiful lines, and a lifetime warranty.

Carl Friedrik is a brand known for elegance, and it delivers with the Ashby tote. With its clean lines and pristine details, this tote radiates classic good taste. The longer you own the Ashby, the better it will look: It’s made of vegetable-tanned, full-grain Vachetta leather, which will develop a patina over time and get even richer with use. The surface is finished, which gives it a slight sheen and protects against water stains and scuffs.

Heavy-duty zippers with polished teeth glide smoothly, and the stitching is near-perfect and incredibly sturdy. The Ashby reliably stays upright with no slouch—we pushed the bag from side to side, and it rocked but never fell over.

The Ashby is large but manageable, and it will work for many occasions. The straps fit comfortably over the shoulder. There’s a spacious main compartment that will easily hold commuting essentials, including a 13-inch laptop in a dedicated pocket. Note that this bag will easily accommodate a 15-inch laptop in the main compartment. There is also a large zip pocket and three slip pockets for storing smaller gear, like a wallet, pens, and charging cords.

Lastly, over the course of our testing, this is one of only four companies we’ve found offering a true lifetime warranty (the others are Duluth Trading Co. , Peak Design, and Timbuk2; Herschel, Targus , and others offer limited lifetime warranties that protect only against manufacturer defects not caused by long-term wear and tear). For a bag that costs as much as a car payment, we’ll take all the protection we can get.

Flaws but not dealbreakers: This is an expensive bag, though its cost is tempered by its excellent quality and lifetime warranty, which covers both wear and tear and manufacturer defects.

The Ashby’s straps are among the thinnest we’ve seen—on a par with those on our Tory Burch Perry Triple-Compartment Tote pick. We found the Ashby’s straps comfortable to use, even when the bag was full. But this is something to be aware of if you haul extra-heavy loads.

This bag’s base lacks studded feet (found on both our EaseGave Laptop Bag and Lo & Sons The O.G. 2 picks), which protect the base from wear and tear.

Dimensions: 18 by 11.5 by 5 inches Handle drop: 9 inches Weight: 2.5 pounds Warranty: lifetime warranty Colors: cognac, black

A sleek, minimalist vegan tote: Matt & Nat Abbi Tote Bag

Matt & Nat Abbi Vegan Tote Bag

An understated vegan leather bag.

Longer-than-average straps make this simple tote—roomy enough for larger laptops—easy to carry. But it doesn’t have a dedicated laptop compartment, so electronics could float around unprotected.

Who should get this: Those who care less about bells and whistles and just want a sleek bag that’s big enough to fit a laptop plus their daily gear.

Maximum laptop size: 15 inches

Why it’s great: The Matt & Nat Abbi Tote Bag is a spacious, no-frills work tote with a practical zippered top closure and long carry handles. It’s made of soft, vegan leather (produced from recycled windshield glass resin) that’s thick enough to keep your bag’s contents from bulging uncomfortably.

The body of the bag is softly structured, and the base is wide and thick, ensuring that the bag remains upright when full and doesn’t spill. The zipper’s metallic accent color and long, tapered pull tab add to the tote’s sleek, understated look. The lining is made of 100% recycled plastic nylon, so it’s especially easy to spot-clean.

The Abbi tote’s interior has one open pocket that’s big enough to hold a smartphone or a slim wallet, plus one wallet-sized pocket with a zipper that echoes the exterior’s metallic finishes. But there is no dedicated laptop compartment.

We especially appreciate the Abbi’s long handles, which make tucking the bag under the arm easier (especially for those who have a larger chest). The handles have a 10-inch strap drop, 2 inches longer than those of many totes we researched, including some bags listed in our Competition section, from Cuyana, Dagne Dover, and Lo & Sons . Two inches may not seem like much, but when you’re hauling your laptop, commuting gear, and a few dinner ingredients, you’ll likely be thankful for the extra length.

Finally, we’d trust the Abbi to keep our belongings safe and dry if we were forced to rest it on the floor of a subway car. There’s a feeling of dread many commuters experience whenever they lift their bag off the ground, fearing they’ll discover that it’s dripping wet and their stuff is ruined. During our tests, the Abbi’s clean, tight seams didn’t let spills seep through this bag. And the vegan leather is easy to spot-clean.

Flaws but not dealbreakers: The Abbi’s minimalist design lacks a padded compartment for a laptop. For shock absorption, we recommend using a padded sleeve for your laptop in this bag.

The Abbi’s zipper doesn’t create an airtight seal—not unusual among zippered totes—so water may trickle in from above during a heavy rainstorm. When you’re traveling sans umbrella, carrying the bag under your arm should keep out most rainwater.

Vegan leathers can flake and peel after extended use (though Wirecutter’s Sasha VanHoven has had a Matt & Nat backpack made of a similar material for more than a year and hasn’t seen any peeling).

Matt & Nat’s one-year limited warranty policy doesn’t cover normal wear and tear. To extend the life of the bag, we recommend cleaning stains with warm water and dish soap, and coating it in faux-leather polish as needed.

Dimensions: 13.5 by 5.75 by 12 inches Handle drop: 10 inches Weight: 1 pound Warranty: one-year limited warranty Colors: black, daffodil, lime green, lychee, yellow

A sturdy budget tote: EaseGave Laptop Bag

EaseGave Laptop Bag

An inexpensive faux leather bag.

This bag is well priced and extremely durable, and it has plenty of useful features—including a detachable messenger strap and metal feet. But it’s heavy and stiff, and few will mistake the exterior for real leather.

Who should get this: Commuters seeking a durable, functional tote on a budget.

Maximum laptop size: 15 inches (for the 15.6-inch bag), 17 inches (for the 17.3-inch bag)

Why it’s great: The EaseGave Laptop Bag is the cheapest bag we recommend, but it doesn’t skimp on features. Made of top-grain polyurethane leather (PU leather for short), this laptop tote bag was thicker and more durable than other faux leather bags we tested, such as the flimsy Dreubea Women’s Soft Faux Leather Tote (featured in the Competition section). It mirrors the structured, rolled carry handles and the mixed compartments of the Dagne Dover Signature Tote (also in the Competition section), which costs nearly four times as much. The EaseGave’s carry handles and messenger strap are both adjustable, to give you the best fit, which is especially impressive for a bag at this price.

Our panelists were impressed by the EaseGave’s functionality. “I really think this is a great affordable bag,” said Wirecutter product manager Samina Begum. “It had an outside pocket for all the things that I needed to keep close at hand, and the fake leather did not scratch no matter how roughly I treated the material.”

Testers also appreciated this bag’s metal feet, which lift the bag slightly off the ground, keeping  spills and grimy subway platforms at a distance. Studded feet aside, the EaseGave didn’t soak up liquids during our spill tests.

The EaseGave comes in two sizes (15.6 inches and 17.3 inches), with a dedicated, padded compartment that can fit a tablet or laptop (up to 15 and 17 inches, respectively). The compartment fastens shut with a Velcro strap, and although it isn’t the most secure option, it’s enough to prevent a laptop from sliding out.

Flaws but not dealbreakers: Although testers liked the EaseGave’s structured, rectangular shape, they occasionally found it cumbersome to carry on a crowded bus or subway; it’s so stiff and rigid that it doesn’t compress down when tucked under an arm.

The EaseGave’s interior is rough and feels like cheap polyester, which isn’t surprising at this price. The padding of the laptop compartment is on only one side. The other side is a wall-to-wall zippered pocket, but the material is flimsy, and our commuters worried about its long-term durability. “I was super anxious that my keys in my zip pocket would rip through the thin fabric and scratch my computer,” said one tester.

The EaseGave is pretty heavy, even when empty: The 15.6-inch model is 2.3 pounds, and the 17.3-inch model is 2.6 pounds, which is almost double the weight of most laptop totes we recommend.

Dimensions: 15.35 by 4.53 by 12.2 inches; 17.1 by 4.53 by 13.1 inches Handle drop: 6 inches Crossbody strap: 27 to 47 inches Weight: 2.3 pounds (15-inch laptop model); 2.6 pounds (17-inch laptop model) Warranty: 30-day return policy Colors: purple

To determine what makes a great laptop tote, we researched style blogs, bag forums, and online reviews, and we consulted our coworkers. We then compiled a list of dozens of well-reviewed laptop tote bags in a variety of styles, recording key information like price, size, materials, availability, and third-party reviews.

We also listed each bag’s notable features, such as zippered compartments, a dedicated laptop pocket, a crossbody strap, color options, and warranty coverage.

Once we had narrowed the pool and selected bags for in-person testing, we assessed each tote for its overall quality, the durability of the laptop compartments (when applicable), carrying comfort, weight, and water resistance.

We also had Wirecutter staffers commute with the semifinalists and then share their feedback.

Open-top tote bags

Our panelists liked the bucket shape of the Cuyana Classic Structured Leather Tote . It has leather ties that can be used to help keep its open top closed, but our panelists balked at having to partially tie a bag closed using thick pieces of leather, which easily came undone.

The Longchamp Large Le Pliage Tote Bag is lightweight and packs nicely into itself for storage, but our panelists preferred bags with a dedicated laptop compartment or some exterior padding.

Budget laptop bags

The Dreubea Women’s Soft Faux Leather Tote was really thin and showed wear and tear easily, so our panelists weren’t comfortable carrying a delicate laptop in it.

Our testers liked the gunmetal hardware accents on the Mosiso Laptop Tote Bag , but they found the zippers to be sticky and a pain to use.

The Overbrooke Classic Canvas Laptop Tote Bag was the roughest bag we tested. The cheap canvas scraped against our panelists’ skin and attracted dirt and debris with little effort. The bag also absorbed water during our spill tests.

Convertible laptop bags

The Targus 15″ Newport Convertible 2-in-1 Tote/Backpack has a clean design—though it reads more as a backpack than a tote—and a padded laptop compartment, but during our tests the bag leaked spilled water. Our panelists also hated its bright-orange interior.

Traditional laptop tote bags

The vegan leather on the Dagne Dover Daily Tote looked unattractive, the zipper was clunky, and the straps were too thin to be comfortable. The Dagne Dover Signature Tote (Classic) , also in vegan leather, was—at 3 pounds—the heaviest bag we tested. The carry handles were rope shaped, rather than flat like on most bags, and frequently fell off the shoulders of our testers. On top of that, our panelists thought the bag’s weight, rigid design, and thick, sharp edges made for a poor combination during commutes on a crowded subway train.

The Duluth Trading Co. Lifetime Leather Tote was heavy, thick, and uncomfortable to carry. The leather is treated with oil; it darkens when wet and takes forever to dry. And the zipper doesn’t offer a tight seal to protect delicate electronics from water damage.

The Lo & Sons Seville Tote is expensive and heavy, and the latch on the laptop compartment is hard to secure. Also, it didn’t keep out liquids during testing.

Travel laptop bags

The roomy Knomo Grosvenor Place Laptop Tote Bag had clean stitching, but it failed our liquid-blocking tests.

Although the Solo New York Jay Leather Tote has a full-grain leather body, we found the quality wasn’t as nice as that of most other leather bags we tested. The zippers were sticky, too, and the bag soaked up water during our liquid tests.

The Targus 15″ Newport East-West Tote is well made and offers ample laptop protection. But the carry straps were uncomfortable for us, and our panelists hated the bag’s traffic-cone orange interior color.

This article was edited by Ingela Ratledge Amundson and Jennifer Hunter.

Meet your guide

Kaitlyn Wells

Kaitlyn Wells is a senior staff writer who advocates for greater work flexibility by showing you how to work smarter remotely without losing yourself. Previously, she covered pets and style for Wirecutter. She's never met a pet she didn’t like, although she can’t say the same thing about productivity apps. Her first picture book, A Family Looks Like Love , follows a pup who learns that love, rather than how you look, is what makes a family.

Further reading

The Best Tote Bags

by Zoe Vanderweide

Wherever you may be headed, we’ve found five great totes to take along on your schlep.

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 Underseat Luggage and Personal-Item Bags

by Kit Dillon

There’s more to a great in-flight personal item than being small enough to stuff under a plane seat. Here’s how to choose the right one for your travel needs.

The Best Gym Bag

After stuffing more than 40 gym bags with clothes, gear, water bottles, and more, we want to carry the KNKG Plus Duffel  to our next workout.

11 Best Messenger Bags for Style, Tech, and Travel

W hether you need a new bag to take to work, you’re over lugging around a bulky backpack , or just love the sleek, stylish look of a messenger bag, we’ve tested and trialled them all to bring you our top picks. From crossbody bags perfect for if you prefer to get around by riding your bike, to leather messenger bags bound to impress everyone in the office, here are the best messenger bags for style, tech, and travel.

Best Messenger Bags at a Glance

• Best overall: Bellroy Tokyo Work Bag
• For style: R.M. Williams Messenger Bag
• For travel : Trakke Bairn Messenger Bag
• Best value for money: Peak Design Everyday Sling

1. Bellroy Tokyo Work Bag

• Weight: 880g
• Activity : Everyday/Commute
• Material : 100% recycled external fabric and linings, with eco-tanned leather accents
• Price : AUD$289

In need of a new sling bag to take to work? Look no further than the Bellroy Tokyo Work Bag. Combining clean, minimalist design with functionality and clever use of space, we can’t fault it. It features a padded 16” laptop sleeve, a side water bottle pocket and even a raised mesh sunglasses pocket. Best of all, Bellroy has adorned this messenger bag with a heap of extra padding, so even when we were running for the bus, our belongings weren’t bouncing all over the place and getting damaged. With ample space and a detachable padded shoulder strap, what more could you ask for?

2. Crumpler Strength of Character

• Weight: 700g
• Material : Canvas
• Price : AUD$169

The Crumpler Strength of Character is one of the best messenger bags for men if you’re all about versatility. It is large, robust and sturdy — pretty much the definition of ‘jam-packed’, with three closure options for the main compartment, a velcro sealed internal 15″ laptop sleeve and a large front pocket. It is also weather resistant and has a heavy-duty shoulder strap with removable padding.

3. Sealson TE 3-Way Messenger Bag

• Weight: 520g
• Material : 100% Ecoya nylon
• Price : AUD$340

A large crossbody bag doubling as a backpack, the Sealson TE 3-Way Messenger Bag is definitely out of the ordinary, which is why we like it. At the forefront of utility and style, with plenty of capacity and now in a sleek charcoal colour, add this to any outfit and it will only elevate your look. This is also a great option if you’re a bike rider, with a strap system that enables quick-rip access even in backpack mode.

4. Snow Peak Shoulder Bag

• Material : 100% nylon
• Price : AUD$165

Sturdy but flexible, this shoulder bag from Snow Peak is designed to be used. The outdoor lifestyle brand knows has proved they know how to design for functionality, and it’s no different when it comes to its accessories — this bag is made of 100 per cent nylon, and features two external mesh pockets, an external zip pocket, and a detachable shoulder strap. With a 10L capacity, it’s small but mighty, which is a surpirse for a sling bag. We found the Shoulder Bag from Snow Peak to be one of the more impressive messenger bags tested, due to it’s extensive sotrage compartments and surprisngly versatile design.

5. R.M. Williams Messenger Bag

• Activity : Travel/Tech
• Material : Premium full grain leather
• Price : AUD$499

It may come as no surprise that R.M Williams has one of the best messenger bags for men on the market. The bag is crafted from premium full-grain leather and features an internal padded laptop sleeve, zip pocket and phone and pen holders, over-the-shoulder strap, tongue and loop closure and nickel hardware. In the signature R.M Williams look, this bag is the perfect accessory to complement your trusty RM boots.

6. Bleu de Chauffe Fisherman’s Musette M

• Weight : 1kg
• Activity : Travel/Luggage
• Material : GOTS certified organic cotton canvas, vegetable-tanned leather
• Price : AUD$242.91

A boujee side bag with a nautic touch, the Bleu de Chauffe Fisherman’s Musette is one of a kind. Not only are you bound to be the only one in the office with this bag around your shoulder, but you’ll be organised and looking the part, too, made from a blend of fine and rugged materials and with plenty of storage to keep you sorted. This premium messenger bag features three outside pockets: two on the flap with one patch pocket on the back. Best of all, it’s super robust and durable, meaning that your laptops, electronics and wallet will be secure wherever you take this bag.

7. Gramicci Sacoche

• Material : 100% Nylon
• Price : AUD$89

Ideal for those opting for a smaller, functional option, the Gramicci Sacoche is the way to go. Dedicated to long-lasting gear designed for the outdoors, Gramicci’s messenger bag is functional beyond everything else, made from cotton corduroy with utilitarian-style mesh overlays, whilst stylistically paying ode to the brand’s Japanese roots. If you are looking for a lightweight messenger bag, this is our top pick, however, the 100 per cent nylon construction isn’t the best for protecting your belongings. Those planning to carry laptops and other electronics might find this option a little thin and would be better served with a more robust design.

8. Master-Piece POTENTIAL Messenger Bag No.01756-V3

• Material : CORDURA Ballistic 420d fabric 100% nylon breathable waterproof film L-Vent® laminated
• Price : AUD$411

One of the best messenger bags for men if you’re looking to make an impact, the POTENTIAL Messenger Bag is the epitome of blending functionality with style. The bag features a thin compartment, durable fabric, and is water-repellent, with a bold buckle that, we think, is what really makes the bag. This bag is a little more on the robust side and with a weight of around 1kg, it’s not the most practical for everyday use. That being said, it’s a great addition to your luggage rotation, as it is the perfect carry-on piece for your next overseas trip.

9. Peak Design Everyday Sling

• Weight : 450g
• Activity : Travel/Everyday
• Material : 400D double poly-coated DWR-impregnated nylon canvas shell
• Price : AUD$163.59

One of the most versatile canvas crossbody bags out there, The Peak Design Everyday Sling has been designed with every purpose and every person in mind. It comes in 3L, 6L, and 10L sizes so you can pick the perfect companion whether it’s for your camera gear, drone or tablet or laptop. Plus, for the active among us, the padded cross-body strap features a quick adjuster that you can loosen when accessing gear and tighten when getting active. Importantly, Peak Design has gone all-in on sustainability, with the messenger bag crafted from 400D double poly-coated DWR-impregnated nylon canvas. This 100 per cent recycled post-consumer material ensures your belongings are safe and that you are doing right by the environment at the same time.

10. Trakke Bairn Messenger Bag

• Weight : 1.3kg
• Activity : Travel
• Material : Durable dry-finish waxed canvas
• Price : AUD$501

The best messenger bag for men for comfort and utility, Trakke have outdone itself with this little thing. With plenty of storage and organisation including an interior zip pocket and 13-inch laptop sleeve and supreme comfort thanks to adjustable straps and G-hook buckles for easy access, this bag is minimalist design re-defined.

11. Arc-tyrex Heliad 12-litre Tote

• Weight : 180g
• Activity : Travel/Commute
• Material : 100D Cordura Mini Ripstop
• Price : AUD$90

Not your typical canvas crossbody bag, this silicone tote is the answer to the ultimate versatile messenger bag. Perfect for trips, work or adventure, it is also extremely functional. It has a small external pocket for your phone and wallet and a spacious rectangular design that makes packing easy, with a breathable mesh shoulder strap that makes everyday carrying nothing but comfortable.

Things to Consider for Messenger Bags

When it comes to selecting the best messenger bag for you, there are a few important factors to consider to ensure you choose the correct option to meet your needs and preferences. Here are some things to keep in mind:

• Purpose and Use: As a functional purchase, we recommend making sure the product you are considering meets your everyday needs first and foremost, before looking at style. Here is what to consider when purchasing a messenger bag. Start out by determining the primary use for the bag – Are you using it for work, commuting, travel, or casual outings? Secondly, think about the products that you will need to carry, such as laptops, tablets and documents.
• Size: Once you have figured out exactly what you need to carry, you’ll have a better understanding of what size messenger bag is best for you. Don’t be afraid to measure your belongings and check them against the specifications. It never hurts to be sure.
• Material: Depending on where and how you plan on using the messenger bag, material and fabric can play an important role. If you walk or ride to work, you might be better off buying a messenger bag that has a weatherproof construction, rather than your standard canvas build. Additionally, consider the environmental impacts of the bag and weigh that up against your own personal thoughts.
• Comfort and Design: While large and bulky messenger bags will ultimately give you more space to play with, going big isn’t always the best option. Large, double-handle bags can be tricky to carry for long periods and conversely, sling bags will be the most comfortable, at the expense of real estate.

Alternatives to Messenger Bags

If messenger bags aren’t quite your style, the options don’t end there. There are a host of other great everyday bags that will help you carry your things to and from the office in style.

• Best Work Backpacks for Men
• Best Duffel Bags for All Purposes
• Best Weekender Bags for Your Next Getaway
• Best Motorcycle Backpacks for the Daily Commute
• Best Luxury Luggage Brands for Men’s Travel Suitcases
• Best USB Charging Luggage and Suitcases

How Man of Many Chose This List of Messenger Bags

With over 10 years of experience reviewing travel products, fashion and everyday carry items, Man of Many’s team of editors  is committed to providing independent and objective reviews. All products were selected on the key criteria of taste, availability, style and user reviews. The review team has personally tasted many of the products on this list and where that was not possible, sought the advice of customers and users before publication for the official tick of approval. You can  review our editorial policy here  surrounding how we maintain our independence in our editorial reviews.

Messenger Bags FAQs

If you are looking for a quality sling bag, brands such as Peak Design and Bellroy have a range of quality over-the-shoulder options. For versatility and comfort, we recommend Peak Design Everyday Sling.

With a number of handy pocket options and enough space to fit a full-size computer, the Bellroy Tokyo Work Bag is the best messenger bag for carrying a laptop. Additionally, the lightweight design and fabric construction allow you to travel without adding too much bulk.

Designed as a stylish and more professional alternative to the backpack, messenger bags feature a series of useful compartments that make it easy to find what you want quickly. These bags are generally used to carry work essentials, such as a laptop, folder or smartphone.

This article may contain affiliate links that Microsoft and/or the publisher may receive a commission from if you buy a product or service through those links.

Every product is independently selected by (obsessive) editors. Things you buy through our links may earn us a commission.

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.

Related Articles: Best Weekender Bags | Best Gym Bags

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 laptop bags 2024

The best laptop bags, according to reviews

There are no shortage of options when it comes to finding the best laptop bags in 2024. These bags will keep your tech safely ensconced as you tote them everywhere you go and hopefully stay comfortable for you as well. Whether you're commuting or traveling, keeping your laptop and personal items secure is important to remain a functional adult, so don't skimp on style or protection. The best laptop bags are travel-friendly and comfortable, but spacious enough to store all of your portable essentials and devices.

Don't worry, we've done the digging, both literally and figuratively, and have rounded up the best laptop bags available on the market. These laptop bags will satisfy your daily needs and stylish desires. In the meantime, let’s get you caught up on the market’s most popular options. From courier bags to massive backpacks meant for gamers, here is a list of the best laptop bags. 

Need a new laptop? Check out our best laptops page.

 What is the best laptop bag? 

Why you can trust Laptop Mag Our expert reviewers spend hours testing and comparing products and services so you can choose the best for you. Find out more about how we test .

1. Peak Design Everyday Messenger

Our expert review:

Specifications

Reasons to buy, reasons to avoid.

Peak Design's Everyday Messenger Bag is one of the most well thought out products on the market today. Its magnetic MagLatch closure works like magic and ensures your bag is secure, but still easy to open. Also, its customizable flexfold dividers let you configure your storage to perfectly meet personal preference. 

Adding to its greatness is a comfy adjustable shoulder strap, additional hip straps to help balance heavy loads, and a padded laptop sleeve that will fit all but the biggest 15-inch laptops. So, even though it was designed with photographers in mind, it's also one of the best bags any regular Joe can buy.

Read our full Peak Design Everyday Messenger review .

2. Herschel Supply Co. Pop Quiz Backpack

For under $50, the Pop Quiz is the epitome of cheap chic. The bag's attractive main compartment features a fleece-lined laptop sleeve that can accommodate systems of up to 15 inches. 

Its versatile design is highlighted by durable build quality, as well as several storage pockets and organizers that make accessing devices on the go seamless. And because this backpack is available in more than 44 different colors, you won't have to struggle to find your favorite. 

3. Swissgear 1900 ScanSmart Mini/Slim Version Laptop Backpack

The Swissgear 1900 landed on our best laptops bags page because it is a TSA-friendly bag that you can slide under your airplane seat with ease. It can also fit your 13-inch tablet without any trouble. 

The Swissgear 1900 is also one of our best laptop bags due to its high quality, rugged polyester design. This best laptop bag is also excellent for organizing your personal items, whether it's pens, folders, books and more.

The laptop bag is also quite comfortable with ergonomic, padded shoulder straps equipped with an airflow back panel to provide all-day breathability. The grab handle is also solid and durable, so you don't have to worry about it falling apart during your commute or travels. There's also a side water bottle pocket for quick grab-and-go convenience. 

4. Timbuk2 Spire

Laptops are major investments, which is why you never want to carry them around in harsh environmental conditions like rain or snow. With the TimBuk2 Spire, you get a modern canvas bag that has an integrated waterproof rolltop to prevent aqua from leaking into your bag and damaging personal items. 

Available in two muted colors, it’s designed to fit a 15.6-inch MacBook laptop and has a separate iPad pocket, along with internal and external pockets for other carry-on electronics. The daisy-chain webbing is also useful for bikers and outdoor adventurists who need to carry a bit extra when bag space becomes limited.

5. Solo Duane Convertible Briefcase

The Duane Convertible may look like a standard briefcase bag, but its secrets are revealed once you turn it on its side. Solo’s hybrid carrier seamlessly converts into a backpack when your arms are getting tired and can flip back into a messenger bag for better maneuverability or when you're in a more formal setting. 

If you own a  15.6-inch MacBook Pro  or  Dell XPS 15 , you'll be able to clip them into the bag’s padded compartment, while a handful of other tech products can be organized in a large front pocket. There is even a pair of quick-access pockets for your phone, keys and wallet. 

6. Mancro Anti-Theft Backpack

Any backpack designed with security features like a combination zipper lock is well worth the look, especially for commuters who travel with expensive gear. The Mancro Anti-Theft Backpack does the best job of securing your goods, bundled with a tiny lock that’s simple to operate and easily slides through the zipper holes. 

The main compartment can store any 15” laptop and large tablets simultaneously, while the bag’s numerous small compartments keep EDC items neatly organized and safe. However, its most compelling feature is the built-in USB charging port on the side that can be used to juice up portable devices when your Anker charger isn’t an option.

7. eBags Professional Slim Laptop Backpack

eBags doesn't just sell backpacks, it also makes its own. For students and business users who want tons of secure compartments in a small bag, go with the Slim Processional. 

This business-friendly bag has a 17-inch laptop sleeve, crushproof AC-adapter garage, and a convenient front vertical zippered pocket. The Teflon-coated design also repels water effectively to preserve the exterior and protect what’s inside. At $120, it might seem pricey, but you still get a ton of backpack for the money.

8. AmazonBasics Shoulder Bag Carrying Case

If you’re all about maintaining a low-key presence, then this is the sling for you. Amazon’s slim and compact shoulder bag lets you discretely carry any laptop over the shoulder or by the handle. 

You won’t be turning heads with the subdued black design, but the carrier serves its purpose of safely getting your portable computer and EDC items from point A to point B. There is no standout functionality, but it’s unbelievably cheap and you really can’t ask for much more than what it already affords: flexibility and organization.

9. Volher Laptop Backpack for Business and Travel

The Volher laptop backpack for business and travel is one of the best laptop bags in the market. One of this bag's greatest selling points is its built-in USB charger that can be found on the outside. There is also a built-in USB charger on the inside. This is excellent for travelers and commuters because now they can conveniently charge their devices while walking.

This Volher laptop backpack is water resistant and its material is made of durable polyester fabric, ensuring long-lasting usage. Another reason why this laptop landed on our best laptop backpacks page is its stylish design. It's very modern and clean-looking, but still has a trendy, sexy aesthetic.

This Volher laptop backback can hold any 15.6-inch laptop in its spacious, roomy laptop compartment. There are mesh pockets on the side for a water bottle and umbrella to keep your items organized and easy to access.

10. HP Envy Urban Backpack

Who knew HP had an eye for stylish travel gear? The PC giant has definitely caught our attention with its fashionable backpack that comes fully waterproof and features genuine-leather handles, which convert the Envy Urban into a utility tote. However, it’s more than just a fashion statement. 

You’ll find a plethora of pockets, including a zippered tech pocket and a soft, fully lined compartment, to carry all of your valuables. Another convenient feature is a cable-routing system that makes it easy to charge your portable devices. Best of all, it comes with RFID protection to secure your personal information from hackers.

How to choose the best laptop bag for you?

There are so many types of laptop backpacks out there, so to make your shopping a little bit easier, it's a good idea to narrow down your options to backpacks that fit your needs. There are several super-important aspects of a laptop backpack you must take into consideration before buying, including size, compartments and innovative designs that somehow manage to maximize space while maintaining TSA-friendly dimensions.

Size:   If you're going to purchase a laptop backpack, you're going to have to make sure that your laptop can fit into your chosen backpack of course.  You should measure your laptop's width (from left to right) and depth (from the hinge to the lip). When sifting through the internet for a laptop backpack, you'll have to make sure that the backpack is at least an inch longer than your laptop's width, since laptops tend to sit vertically in laptop backpacks. You should also make sure the backpack is wide enough to fit your laptop's depth.

You should also double check to see if the backpack complies with TSA guidelines if you plan on travelling.

Compartments:  Compartments are where laptop backpack makers get creative and design bags that fit certain consumers. If you tend to have a lot of small knickknacks  when commuting and travelling, then it's best that you opt for a laptop backpack with a lot of fun hidden pockets and pouches.

If you're an on-the-go business man or woman, you'll want to keep an eye out for a backpack that has a compartment that can keep your files and folders safely tucked away.

Useful features:  The number one thing I look for in a laptop backpack is a USB charging port in case my phone decides to run out of juice, and I don't want to have to deal with outlet hoggers at the airport. Premium laptops backpacks tend to offer useful features that will make your commute and travels a lot easier.

Durability:  You should also keep in mind the fabric and material of your backpack. If you're going to be exploring rugged locations or regions with frequent inclement weather, you should definitely consider purchasing a laptop backpack with durable fabric. If you're going to a rainy climate, for example, you may want to purchase a water-resistant backpack.  I also highly recommend getting a laptop backpack 

If you're a frequent flyer, you'll likely be pushing your laptop backpack beneath your seat quite often, so you'll want to choose a fabric that doesn't pick up stains and spills too easily, such as water-resistant polyester.

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Sean Riley has been covering tech professionally for over a decade now. Most of that time was as a freelancer covering varied topics including phones, wearables, tablets, smart home devices, laptops, AR, VR, mobile payments, fintech, and more.  Sean is the resident mobile expert at Laptop Mag, specializing in phones and wearables, you'll find plenty of news, reviews, how-to, and opinion pieces on these subjects from him here. But Laptop Mag has also proven a perfect fit for that broad range of interests with reviews and news on the latest laptops, VR games, and computer accessories along with coverage on everything from NFTs to cybersecurity and more. 

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40 facts about elektrostal.

Written by Lanette Mayes

Modified & Updated: 02 Mar 2024

Reviewed by Jessica Corbett

Elektrostal is a vibrant city located in the Moscow Oblast region of Russia. With a rich history, stunning architecture, and a thriving community, Elektrostal is a city that has much to offer. Whether you are a history buff, nature enthusiast, or simply curious about different cultures, Elektrostal is sure to captivate you.

This article will provide you with 40 fascinating facts about Elektrostal, giving you a better understanding of why this city is worth exploring. From its origins as an industrial hub to its modern-day charm, we will delve into the various aspects that make Elektrostal a unique and must-visit destination.

So, join us as we uncover the hidden treasures of Elektrostal and discover what makes this city a true gem in the heart of Russia.

Key Takeaways:

• Elektrostal, known as the “Motor City of Russia,” is a vibrant and growing city with a rich industrial history, offering diverse cultural experiences and a strong commitment to environmental sustainability.
• With its convenient location near Moscow, Elektrostal provides a picturesque landscape, vibrant nightlife, and a range of recreational activities, making it an ideal destination for residents and visitors alike.

Known as the “Motor City of Russia.”

Elektrostal, a city located in the Moscow Oblast region of Russia, earned the nickname “Motor City” due to its significant involvement in the automotive industry.

Home to the Elektrostal Metallurgical Plant.

Elektrostal is renowned for its metallurgical plant, which has been producing high-quality steel and alloys since its establishment in 1916.

Boasts a rich industrial heritage.

Elektrostal has a long history of industrial development, contributing to the growth and progress of the region.

Founded in 1916.

The city of Elektrostal was founded in 1916 as a result of the construction of the Elektrostal Metallurgical Plant.

Located approximately 50 kilometers east of Moscow.

Elektrostal is situated in close proximity to the Russian capital, making it easily accessible for both residents and visitors.

Known for its vibrant cultural scene.

Elektrostal is home to several cultural institutions, including museums, theaters, and art galleries that showcase the city’s rich artistic heritage.

A popular destination for nature lovers.

Surrounded by picturesque landscapes and forests, Elektrostal offers ample opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and birdwatching.

Hosts the annual Elektrostal City Day celebrations.

Every year, Elektrostal organizes festive events and activities to celebrate its founding, bringing together residents and visitors in a spirit of unity and joy.

Has a population of approximately 160,000 people.

Elektrostal is home to a diverse and vibrant community of around 160,000 residents, contributing to its dynamic atmosphere.

Boasts excellent education facilities.

The city is known for its well-established educational institutions, providing quality education to students of all ages.

A center for scientific research and innovation.

Elektrostal serves as an important hub for scientific research, particularly in the fields of metallurgy, materials science, and engineering.

Surrounded by picturesque lakes.

The city is blessed with numerous beautiful lakes, offering scenic views and recreational opportunities for locals and visitors alike.

Well-connected transportation system.

Elektrostal benefits from an efficient transportation network, including highways, railways, and public transportation options, ensuring convenient travel within and beyond the city.

Famous for its traditional Russian cuisine.

Food enthusiasts can indulge in authentic Russian dishes at numerous restaurants and cafes scattered throughout Elektrostal.

Home to notable architectural landmarks.

Elektrostal boasts impressive architecture, including the Church of the Transfiguration of the Lord and the Elektrostal Palace of Culture.

Offers a wide range of recreational facilities.

Residents and visitors can enjoy various recreational activities, such as sports complexes, swimming pools, and fitness centers, enhancing the overall quality of life.

Provides a high standard of healthcare.

Elektrostal is equipped with modern medical facilities, ensuring residents have access to quality healthcare services.

Home to the Elektrostal History Museum.

The Elektrostal History Museum showcases the city’s fascinating past through exhibitions and displays.

A hub for sports enthusiasts.

Elektrostal is passionate about sports, with numerous stadiums, arenas, and sports clubs offering opportunities for athletes and spectators.

Celebrates diverse cultural festivals.

Throughout the year, Elektrostal hosts a variety of cultural festivals, celebrating different ethnicities, traditions, and art forms.

Electric power played a significant role in its early development.

Elektrostal owes its name and initial growth to the establishment of electric power stations and the utilization of electricity in the industrial sector.

Boasts a thriving economy.

The city’s strong industrial base, coupled with its strategic location near Moscow, has contributed to Elektrostal’s prosperous economic status.

Houses the Elektrostal Drama Theater.

The Elektrostal Drama Theater is a cultural centerpiece, attracting theater enthusiasts from far and wide.

Popular destination for winter sports.

Elektrostal’s proximity to ski resorts and winter sport facilities makes it a favorite destination for skiing, snowboarding, and other winter activities.

Promotes environmental sustainability.

Elektrostal prioritizes environmental protection and sustainability, implementing initiatives to reduce pollution and preserve natural resources.

Home to renowned educational institutions.

Elektrostal is known for its prestigious schools and universities, offering a wide range of academic programs to students.

Committed to cultural preservation.

The city values its cultural heritage and takes active steps to preserve and promote traditional customs, crafts, and arts.

Hosts an annual International Film Festival.

The Elektrostal International Film Festival attracts filmmakers and cinema enthusiasts from around the world, showcasing a diverse range of films.

Encourages entrepreneurship and innovation.

Elektrostal supports aspiring entrepreneurs and fosters a culture of innovation, providing opportunities for startups and business development.

Offers a range of housing options.

Elektrostal provides diverse housing options, including apartments, houses, and residential complexes, catering to different lifestyles and budgets.

Home to notable sports teams.

Elektrostal is proud of its sports legacy, with several successful sports teams competing at regional and national levels.

Boasts a vibrant nightlife scene.

Residents and visitors can enjoy a lively nightlife in Elektrostal, with numerous bars, clubs, and entertainment venues.

Promotes cultural exchange and international relations.

Elektrostal actively engages in international partnerships, cultural exchanges, and diplomatic collaborations to foster global connections.

Surrounded by beautiful nature reserves.

Nearby nature reserves, such as the Barybino Forest and Luchinskoye Lake, offer opportunities for nature enthusiasts to explore and appreciate the region’s biodiversity.

Commemorates historical events.

The city pays tribute to significant historical events through memorials, monuments, and exhibitions, ensuring the preservation of collective memory.

Promotes sports and youth development.

Elektrostal invests in sports infrastructure and programs to encourage youth participation, health, and physical fitness.

Hosts annual cultural and artistic festivals.

Throughout the year, Elektrostal celebrates its cultural diversity through festivals dedicated to music, dance, art, and theater.

Provides a picturesque landscape for photography enthusiasts.

The city’s scenic beauty, architectural landmarks, and natural surroundings make it a paradise for photographers.

Connects to Moscow via a direct train line.

The convenient train connection between Elektrostal and Moscow makes commuting between the two cities effortless.

A city with a bright future.

Elektrostal continues to grow and develop, aiming to become a model city in terms of infrastructure, sustainability, and quality of life for its residents.

In conclusion, Elektrostal is a fascinating city with a rich history and a vibrant present. From its origins as a center of steel production to its modern-day status as a hub for education and industry, Elektrostal has plenty to offer both residents and visitors. With its beautiful parks, cultural attractions, and proximity to Moscow, there is no shortage of things to see and do in this dynamic city. Whether you’re interested in exploring its historical landmarks, enjoying outdoor activities, or immersing yourself in the local culture, Elektrostal has something for everyone. So, next time you find yourself in the Moscow region, don’t miss the opportunity to discover the hidden gems of Elektrostal.

Q: What is the population of Elektrostal?

A: As of the latest data, the population of Elektrostal is approximately XXXX.

Q: How far is Elektrostal from Moscow?

A: Elektrostal is located approximately XX kilometers away from Moscow.

Q: Are there any famous landmarks in Elektrostal?

A: Yes, Elektrostal is home to several notable landmarks, including XXXX and XXXX.

Q: What industries are prominent in Elektrostal?

A: Elektrostal is known for its steel production industry and is also a center for engineering and manufacturing.

Q: Are there any universities or educational institutions in Elektrostal?

A: Yes, Elektrostal is home to XXXX University and several other educational institutions.

Q: What are some popular outdoor activities in Elektrostal?

A: Elektrostal offers several outdoor activities, such as hiking, cycling, and picnicking in its beautiful parks.

Q: Is Elektrostal well-connected in terms of transportation?

A: Yes, Elektrostal has good transportation links, including trains and buses, making it easily accessible from nearby cities.

Q: Are there any annual events or festivals in Elektrostal?

A: Yes, Elektrostal hosts various events and festivals throughout the year, including XXXX and XXXX.

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