Thursday, July 27, 2023

18 Of The Best Messenger Bags For Your Work & Travel Needs

Messenger bags are trending, whether it's because back-to-school shopping has begun, workers are looking for new commuter bags, or travelers are searching for personal item bag alternatives. Whether you're in the market for a classic leather messenger bag or a casual canvas messenger bag, we've compiled some of the best ones out there to get you from point A to point Z in style.

We've sourced traditional flap-over crossbody messenger bags (for men and women) along with more modern interpretations, including carryalls, totes, laptop bags, and briefcases (all with crossbody straps for that messenger feel). So if you're looking to securely store your essentials in a tried-and-true style, scroll on to find some of the best messenger bags for travel, work, and everything in between.

At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. If you buy something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.

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Best Messenger Bags


Get yourself a messenger bag that does it all (aka holds your laptop, journal, passport, wallet, and the lot). These traditional styles have front flaps, roomy interior and exterior pockets, and adjustable crossbody straps for the perfect fit. Choose between sleek leather messenger bags that you'll want to wear to the office and durable ones that you can throw onto a train or carry onto a plane.

Shop Leatherology

Leatherology Laptop Messenger Bag, $, available at Leatherology

Bostanten Mizuki Leather Messenger Briefcase


Shop Bostanten

Bostanten Mizuki Leather Messenger Briefcase, $, available at Bostanten

Rothco Classic Canvas Messenger Bag


Shop Amazon

Rothco Classic Canvas Messenger Bag, $, available at Amazon

Mark & Graham Leather Messenger Bag


Shop Mark & Graham

Mark & Graham Leather Messenger Bag, $, available at Mark & Graham

Everlane The ReNew Transit Messenger


Shop Everlane

Everlane The ReNew Transit Messenger, $, available at Everlane

Troubadour Vegan Leather Messenger Bag


Shop Troubadour



Troubadour Vegan Leather Messenger Bag, $, available at Troubadour

L.L. Bean Comfort Carry Messenger Bag


Shop L.L. Bean

L.L. Bean Comfort Carry Messenger Bag, $, available at L.L. Bean

Samsonite Classic Leather Flapover Bag


Shop Samsonite

Samsonite Classic Leather Flapover Bag, $, available at Samsonite

Timbuk2 Custom Classic Messenger Bag


Shop Timbuk2

Timbuk2 Custom Classic Messenger Bag, $, available at Timbuk2

Best Messenger Bag Alternatives


If you're in the market for the functionality of a messenger bag but want a more fashionable look, we've curated alternatives. These include real and faux leather tote bags, super-roomy laptop bags, modern briefcases, and large carryalls that can be worn as crossbody styles for a secure fit. From everyday styles to more elevated ones, pick a bag that will fit your lifestyle and needs.

Shop Dagne Dover

Dagne Dover Wade Neoprene Diaper Tote, $, available at Dagne Dover

Madewell The Transport Shoulder Crossbody Bag


Shop Madewell

Madewell The Transport Shoulder Crossbody Bag, $, available at Madewell

FP Movement Quilted Carryall


Shop Free People

FP Movement Quilted Carryall, $, available at Free People

KROSER Laptop Messenger Shoulder Bag


Shop Amazon

KROSER Laptop Messenger Shoulder Bag, $, available at Amazon

Calpak Haven Laptop Tote Bag


Shop Calpak



Calpak Haven Laptop Tote Bag, $, available at Calpak

Béis The Work Tote


Shop Béis

Béis The Work Tote, $, available at Béis

Bellroy Tokyo Work Bag


Shop Bellroy

Bellroy Tokyo Work Bag, $, available at Bellroy

ECOSUSI Sombre Vintage Briefcase


Shop ECOSUSI

ECOSUSI Sombre Vintage Briefcase, $, available at ECOSUSI

Baggu Large Nylon Crescent Bag


Shop Baggu

Baggu Large Nylon Crescent Bag, $, available at Baggu

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