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Best Messenger Bags
Standout Picks
Criteria Used for Evaluation
Features
Laptop/Tablet Usage
If you plan to carry your laptop or tablet inside of your bag as a regular occasion, then make sure the bag you buy has plenty of protection and padding in the laptop/tablet compartment. One of the things you’ll want to make sure your bag has for your laptop or tablet is good, strong, thick padding to protect your electronics in case the bag falls or you drop it with your laptop or tablet inside of it. Also, laptop/tablet compartments that are strongly connected to a durable back panel are made to hold your electronics securely in place, further protecting them from any potential damage or exposure.
Pockets
Different styles of messenger bags offer a wide variety of varying pocket and organizational features. Some only have one main compartment, while others have a variety of pockets and organizers. The type of pocket features you will need is going to depend on exactly how you plan to utilize your bag. Some messenger bags come with pockets for water bottles and can even carry your shoes, which are options that benefit the outdoor enthusiast. If you plan on carrying a lot of small items and electronics, opting for a variety of pockets for the organization is probably the best option.
Materials
Materials
Thinking about the materials your messenger bag is made up of is another item to think about. If you’re going to be using the bag for a lot of outdoor activities, then you’ll want to make sure the bag is long-lasting and made up of durable materials. If you’re opting for appearance, leather is always fantastic, and it is also durable. However, most leather messenger bags aren’t very water resistant. So, you need to weigh out exactly how you plan to use the bag and how durable and weather resistant you need the bag to be. Once you’ve thought those things out, you can select materials that are water resistant, like nylon or polyester bags, or opt for a leather bag if you don’t live in an area where you encounter much rain.
Stabilizing Straps
Stabilizing straps are going to be very important to all of you outdoor enthusiasts planning to use your bags while you’re active and on-the-go. Good stabilizing straps are made to hold your bag in place towards your back area to help you keep your balance no matter what activity you decide to partake in. Bags with low-quality stabilizing straps are much more likely to move around while you move, making both balance and activity level more difficult. Stabilizing straps usually lay across your hips or tummy area to help hold the messenger bag in place, and aren’t typically used by people that just use their messenger bags while walking. The most comfortable messenger bag stabilizing straps are usually horizontal to help remove stress from your shoulder area. However, for those of you that plan to use your messenger bag while riding your bike, having a strap across the tummy area might seem to constrict. Bike riders might be more comfortable opting for messenger bags with T-strap designs.
Shoulder Straps
If you plan to use your bag on a daily basis either for your work, or for outdoor activities, and you know you’ll be carrying the bag around for long periods of time, then taking a close look at the shoulder strap becomes critical. If you fit this scenario, then the type of padding, the amount of it, and the design of the padding all become necessities to consider for your comfort level. Aside from ensuring you’ve got decent padding, you also want to make sure the straps are adjustable and easy-to-use, especially when you’re in the middle of something. Some straps are not easy to adjust during activities, while others are. When considering your comfort level, it’s always better to have straps you can easily adjust at any time, so that you can adjust your bag, especially if you decide to switch shoulders.
Top Flaps
The top flap of your messenger bag is an important feature to consider because the operation of the top flap determines how well, and how securely, the bag closes. A lot of messenger bags try to offer increased security to customers by using a two-part closure system, which is usually made up of a clip and Velcro. However, others use plastic buckles because they are more efficient and easy-to-use. However, plastic buckles are a bit difficult to unclip when you’re accessing your bag with only one hand while it’s still sitting on your shoulder. Also, plastic buckles are very easy for others to open with their two available hands, and make these types of messenger bags targets for people who want to steal your electronics. Hooks are also easy-to-use, and can sometimes entice thieves to target your precious electronics. However, some hooks are made to be a bit more difficult to unclip to ward off thieves.
Since many messenger bags also have Velcro strips, it can be handy sometimes, when you aren’t going very far, to simply use the Velcro to close up your bag. However, the idea of combining Velcro with a hook is supposed to help keep the bag closed and your items safe. Some of these bags also include Velcro silencing strips so that you won’t create a lot of noise or notice when you open your bag.
Weight
The weight of a messenger bag is an important factor to consider before you buy it. The average weight of a messenger bag is about 3-pounds but varies depending on the size and materials used. It is best to know how exactly you plan to use the bag and how heavy your items will be. For example, if it will be used as a diaper bag, a heavier bag won't make much of a difference. On the other hand, if you plan to use it for hiking or outdoor expeditions, you will likely be packing it full of heavy materials and a lighter weight bag would be better.
You should also check if there are weight restrictions to the messenger bag and if the bag has to much weight if the straps can break or the bag will rip. This is good to know so you do not overpack the messenger bag and run into any issues while using it for your day to day errands.
Top Messenger Bags
1. TIMBUK 2 CLASSIC
The Timbuk 2 Classic Messenger Bag provides an affordable option for any professional our outdoor enthusiasts looking for a great bag with a lot of options. This bag packs a lot for its price, with several organization options and a comfortable strap for easy carrying. The Timbuk 2 Classic is also highly durable, so for its price, it will last you a long time.
Read moreFeatures
The Timbuk 2 Classic Messenger Bag comes packed with an internal organizer which will let you keep all of your small items in place so you know where to find them. There’s even an internal water bottle pocket to help you stay hydrated as you go about your day. The cross strap is totally adjustable and includes an air mesh strap pad for excellent comfort on the go.
Materials
The Timbuk 2 Classic Messenger Bag is made up of polyethylene, making it sturdy. It also includes a waterproof TPU liner and flap corners that hold in place, making the bag an excellent way to protect everything inside of it no matter what weather you may face. There are flap buckles and bottom compression straps to keep the bag closed no matter what’s going on outside.
Weight
This bag is available in sizes from XS to L. The XS holds 9L and weighs 1-pound. The S holds 14L and weighs 1.5-pounds. The M holds 21L and weighs 2-pounds. The L holds 28L and weighs 2-pounds.
2. KENNETH COLE RISKY BUSINESS
The Kenneth Cole Risky Business Messenger Bag is another long-lasting bag made to handle a lot of abuse. It’s a bit higher-priced than some of the other options suggested on this list, but if you’re a fan of style or designer brands, this might be the business bag for you. This messenger bag will work well for the everyday professional or the avid outdoor enthusiast and help keep your items safe no matter where you find yourself.
Read moreFeatures
The Kenneth Cole Risky Business Messenger Bag certainly looks good. It’s both classy and casual and includes the Kenneth Cole emblem on the front of it. It’s made with a fabric shoulder strap for comfort and has a wide variety of pockets on the inside to help you organize your items. The bag is also highly durable and long-lasting.
Materials
If you’re a fan of leather, then you’ll probably love this bag and understand why it costs a bit more. The bag itself is matte brown leather and includes contrasting stitching. The flap closure is also magnetic, ensuring the messenger bag will stay shut if you encounter any nasty weather conditions.
Weight
Although this business bag is also made from high-quality leather materials, the designers have managed to keep it fairly lightweight, weighing only 1.8-pounds.
3. TIMBUK2 COMMUTE
This messenger bag from Timbuk2 is for your traveler that finds themselves walking or cycling to and from work. This bag is rugged and is made from tough material, so if you get caught in some nasty weather, your gear will not be jeopardized.
Read moreFeatures
This messenger bag comes with reflective hits which will allow light to be reflective if you find yourself walking or cycling home after the sun goes down.
Materials
This messenger bag is made from durable polyethylene. Which means it will be durable and protected if you find your self in some nasty weather. This bag was made for the individual that has a long commute and will find themselves outside.
Weight
When not filled with any gear this messenger bag weighs around 2 pounds. When filled with gear the weight will be dependent on what type and how much gear you will have in your bag.
4. LEAPER RETRO
This messenger bag comes from a great brand and is quite stylish. It is a little different in design from the other messenger bags on our list but will still perform and carry all your gear without issue.
Read moreFeatures
This messenger bag has a messenger bag and backpack feel. This messenger bag comes packed with pockets and room for storage, which is convenient for smaller gear like pens and other work supplies. The strap is also adjustable to ensure a perfect fit.
Materials
This messenger bag from Leaper is made from canvas. It is a durable material and will hold up throughout your daily travels.
Weight
This canvas bag is lightweight and when not filled with gear weighs a couple of pounds. The weight, once you have the backpack filled, will be dependent on what you plan to store inside.
5. VASCHY VINTAGE
This messenger bag is stylish and has a modern design. It is affordable and a great bag to transport your gear and your laptop easily and conveniently.
Read moreFeatures
This messenger bag is water resistant to ensure that if you get caught in mild rain, your modern bag will be protected and you do not have to worry about your gear or laptop.
Materials
This messenger bag is made from cowhide leather and canvas which makes it comfortable and smooth material. The finish looks great and adds to the style of the bag.
Weight
This messenger bag when unfilled weighs around 2 pounds which is very lightweight and easy to transport. Most likely you will have gear in this messenger bag, so depending on what you fill your bag with, it will depend on what it will end up weighing.
6. BERCHIRLY VINTAGE MILITARY CANVAS
The Berchirly Vintage Military Canvas Messenger Bag comes in a wide variety of sizes and colors, giving you a wide selection of options to pick the perfect outdoor or professional bag. These messenger bags are made to be both attractive in appearance and long-lasting. Another benefit provided by this messenger bag is its ability to be washed in your washer as long as you use cold water and hang it out to dry, meaning you can easily keep it clean and free from debris and dirt.
Read moreFeatures
Berchirly’s Vintage Military Canvas Messenger Bag is both retro and eco-friendly. This messenger bag is machine washable and made up of several compartments to help you stay organized while you are on the go. Even better, the canvas material that makes up most of the bag is highly waterproof, so it will protect anything you keep inside, no matter what the weather is like outside. The bag’s designed to present a vintage look that is eye-catching.
Materials
The Berchirly Vintage Military Canvas Messenger Bag is made up of 90% high-quality canvas and 10% cow leather. This combination of materials makes the canvas bag very durable and long-lasting. The bag also offers several features for the organization. This Berchirly messenger bag has several pockets, including the large main compartment, one interior bag area, and four exterior pockets.
Weight
The weight of the military bag differs by size. While the exact weights aren't available, the smallest bag weighs about 2-pounds and the largest weighs about 2.8-pounds.
7. SAMSONITE COLOMBIAN LEATHER FLAP-OVER BAG
If you’re the type of professional or outdoor enthusiast that has a passion for leather, then the Samsonite Colombian Leather Flap-Over Bag could be a great option for you. It’s very contemporary and suave in appearance, and this leather bag is made to be long-lasting. Because this messenger bag is made up of all leather, it’s not as affordable as some of the other options on the list, but it does offer a wide range of benefits.
Read moreFeatures
This Samsonite messenger bag is built for all-purpose use. It’s got several adjustable features, and the size to fit a laptop of up to 15.6 inches. The shoulder strap is both padded and easy-to-adjust, so you can remove it if you don’t plan on using it. Also, the fold-over flaps of the bag include adjustable buckle straps, so you can ensure the bag can be adjusted to easily fit your items.
Materials
The Samsonite Colombian Leather Flap-Over Bag’s exterior is made up of all Colombian Leather. The cowhide used to produce the leather has been minimally treated, giving each bag its own unique appearance and color variation. The bag is also made up of a fabric lining. The bag includes an organizer under the front flap, which is great for holding small items. There is also a back pocket on the bag which can fit a wide variety of other items.
Weight
Because this messenger bag is made of leather, it is a bit heavier than some of our other options. This bag weighs 4.3-pounds.
8. EGOELIFE BOOST
Life Boost’s Vintage Canvas Messenger Bag is an excellent choice for people who need something both affordable and easy-to-carry during daily activities or while venturing in the great outdoors. It’s machine-washable, roomy, and includes plenty of pockets to carry and organize all of the items you want to bring along with you.
Read moreFeatures
The Life Boost Vintage Canvas Messenger Bag comes with a lot of pockets so that you can stay organized. There are one exterior zipped pocket and two open exterior pockets in the front of the bag. The interior of the vintage bag contains one main compartment and two drop case areas for cards and phones. Also, the shoulder straps are both detachable and adjustable, so you can easily maintain comfort while you carry your canvas bag with you. It’s also easy to keep clean since you can throw it in the washer. However, when using your washing machine, make sure to wash the messenger bag in cold water and avoid alkaline detergent, and hang the bag to dry.
Materials
Life Boost’s Vintage Canvas Messenger Bag is made up of high-quality canvas and leather on the exterior. The combination of these two materials makes the bag very water-resistant, so it can withstand any weather conditions. For the bag’s low price, the waterproof option is a nice surprise. Also, the interior of the bag is made of cotton cloth to help protect the belongings you pack.
Weight
This bag is one of the lighter options on our list. It weighs 1.45-pounds.
9. GOOTIUM RETRO VINTAGE CANVAS LEATHER
The Gootium Retro Vintage Canvas Leather Trim Messenger Bag is an affordable, rugged, professional bag made to fit 14-inch laptops. This messenger bag is available in a variety of colors and comes with attractive leather features on the front flap, handle, shoulder strap, and buckle straps. For its price, it offers both outdoor enthusiasts and everyday professionals a wide variety of helpful features.
Read moreFeatures
The front of the Gootium Retro Vintage Canvas Leather Trim Messenger Bag includes combo magnetic and zipper closure, which is a nice feature because it seals your important items safely into your bag, making sure you don’t lose anything important during your daily travels. Aside from the main pocket in the leather bag, this bag also includes three smaller pockets inside, and two of them zip to help keep your items in place so you stay organized. There is also one external pocket, which zips as well. The bag is also made with adjustable straps so you can ensure the bag always feels comfortable.
Materials
The Gootium Retro Vintage Canvas Leather Trim Messenger Bag is made up mostly of canvas and includes leather trim around the bag. The bag is also designed to be roomy and can fit a fourteen-inch laptop as well as folders, papers, and other small items you may need.
Weight
This canvas bag weighs about average for a messenger bag that features leather, 2.3-pounds.
10. SWEETBRIAR CLASSIC
One of the most affordable messenger bags on this list, the Sweetbriar Classic Messenger Bag gives users a lot of space to pack their items. There’s plenty of pockets and other features offered to help keep you organized. Plus, the bag is made to last, which is a benefit to both professionals and outdoor enthusiasts, and even comes with a one-year warranty.
Read moreFeatures
The Sweetbriar Classic Messenger Bag is super roomy and has several open pockets for you to utilize so you always stay organized. There is a large main pocket, front pockets, and side pockets you can use for your cell phone or water bottle. The style of this bag is also a plus since it is designed to appear retro military and matches just about anything.
Materials
The Sweetbriar Classic Messenger Bag is made up of a strong cotton canvas that includes metal on the bag. The front flap on the bag uses a Velcro closure. However, this bag doesn’t come with any extra padding or any other supportive help that would make it easy-to-carry on your shoulder. It does include a handle on top, but that’s about the bag’s only easy-carry feature.
Weight
This classic messenger bag weighs 2.2-pounds.