The 20 Best Messenger Bags for Modern Professionals
Backpacks may be king when it comes to carry comfort, but messengers (or shoulder bags) take the crown for quick access. You could have slung a messenger round, retrieved a required item and have the bag back at your side or across your back in the same time it takes to simply remove a backpack before accessing interior gear.
This convenient access is definitely a plus when you're a busy modern professional, on the go and frequently reaching for various work or EDC items throughout the day. But aesthetics also play a role here. A stylish shoulder bag generally looks more professional than a backpack. Get a shoulder bag that converts into briefcase mode when needed and you increase that air of professionalism even more, while enjoying the benefits of hands-free carry during the commute. Ultimately though, a work messenger should suit your specific work environment. Casual or smart-casual works in relaxed environments, but you'll want to keep things looking sharp in formal settings.
Organization also needs to be considered too. Do you need tech protection for a laptop or tablet? Do you carry a lot of accessories and tools, in which case multiple pockets will be a real benefit? Or do you run with a minimalist setup that doesn't require a host of options to keep gear tidy?
Whether you're looking for sophisticated style or casual appeal, lots of organization or a blank canvas that lets you do your own thing, we've rounded up some of the best messenger bags out there for modern professionals.
Bring together Mystery Ranch's burly build reputation with convenient organization and versatile carry options and you get the tough and functional One Up Bag. Made with 500D Cordura and weatherproof YKK zippers, the One Up features a padded laptop sleeve along with multiple pockets for stashing your smaller work and EDC essentials. The bag includes top carry handles, a removable shoulder strap, as well as a stowable sling strap for across-the-back carry.
Looking for technical design with everyday functionality? The Arc'teryx Fyx 13 does it well, combining a highly water-resistant and durable build with sleek aesthetics that suit work and play. And with plenty of pockets for organizing tech, work tools and EDC items, you can easily get to gear without having to rummage.
If you're a fan of minimalist and elegant style and don't need to carry a lot, the Côte&Ciel Isarau should be on your radar. Chic, compact and adaptable, the Isarau is inspired by Japanese breastplate armor and can be worn across the chest, back or by your side. The bag fits up to a 9.7"tablet in the main compartment and includes an exterior pocket for storing quick-access items. Additionally, it comes in a choice of materials to suit your personal style.
Timbuk2's Closer Case packs plenty of features into its understated form, which comes in a choice of colors and fabrics. A dedicated padded laptop compartment with exterior access, a luggage passthrough sleeve that converts into a pocket, as well as a stabilizer strap for bike commutes make this a useful piece for daily and travel use. The bag also offers a range of pockets including an exterior water bottle pocket, an attachment point for a bike light, and both grab handle and shoulder strap carry options.
Durable, functional and adaptable, the Despatch can be carried as a shoulder bag or briefcase and also includes a luggage strap for convenient portability during your travels. Useful interior organization keeps items such as a 15"laptop, pens, notebooks, cables and more in order. Added bonus? A padded base that provides extra protection for your gear.
Chic and minimalist, this stylish piece from Bellroy offers a slim, decluttered form that suits a variety of formal and casual environments alike. The Slim Work Bag fits up to a 15"laptop in a dedicated pocket, with a choice of further interior pockets for smaller work tools and accessories, and exterior pockets for quick-access items. Additionally, the bag can be carried as a briefcase or with the removable shoulder strap depending on your needs.
Taking inspiration from horseback archery quivers but primed for the modern-day minimalist, the Riss looks good in both formal and more relaxed environments. Designed to be worn across the back or over a shoulder, the Riss fits up to 13"tech in the padded computer compartment. There's also two exterior pockets to keep frequently used items at the ready. And with a variety of materials to choose from, you can pick and choose to match your tastes.
The Monty-Advanced features Mission Workshop's innovative Arkiv closure system and durable, abrasion-resistant HT500 fabric. The messenger can be used in rolltop or flap down format, with multiple pockets to hold your day-to-day and work gear, including space for a 13"laptop and 15"laptop. A stabilizer strap helps keep the bag secure while cycling, and the weatherproof build provides peace of mind when those storm clouds are threatening. Made in the USA, the Monty also comes with a lifetime guarantee against defects in materials and craftsmanship.
The highly versatile Peak Design Everyday Messenger 13 is full of clever features to help you carry better, from expandability for larger loads, to customizable organization and one-handed magnetic closure. The bag offers dedicated storage for up to a 13"tech device and expands from 6L to 14L. With its adaptable design and weatherproof build, this is a great option if you want a bag that can embrace work and play environments alike.
With its low-key Swiss style, multiple carry options and functional organization, QWSTION's Office Bag is well suited to a range of work and travel environments. The bag fits up to a 17"laptop in a dedicated padded compartment, while the main compartment opens wide for easy access and offers a variety of pockets to keep work and EDC items tidy on the go. Plus with the option to carry it as a shoulder bag, backpack or briefcase you can easily adapt to changing settings. In addition to Organic Jet Black, the bag also comes in further colors and materials to suit your personal tastes.
