The best work bags for men combine function, style, and ample storage for everything you need to take with you on a daily basis. Obviously, the perfect bag depends on your occupation and just how much you need to carry. From messenger bags to briefcases, every stylish man needs a great work bag to make life simpler.
1. Best Small Leather Bag: Jack&Chris Leather Messenger Bag
Price: $70
If you’re just carrying a small tablet, your phone, and a few accessories, like pens and a power bank, you don’t need a full-sized messenger bag. Instead, try this smaller version by Jack&Chris. It’s genuine cowhide leather with five zippered pockets to easily organize everything. It’s also a nice casual bag for walking around town. Choose between three different shades of brown to match any outfit.
2. Best Overall Briefcase: Time Resistance Leather Briefcase
Price: $251
One of the most timeless types of work bags for men is the briefcase. The Time Resistance Leather Briefcase screams class, elegance, and luxury. Instantly make a great first impression at the office or during an interview when you walk in with this Italian hand-crafted leather bag. It features one large compartment perfect for a 15-inch laptop, one zippered pocket, one smartphone pocket, three credit card slots, and two pen holders. There’s even a lock closure to keep items secure.
3. Most Durable Briefcase: Filson Rugged Twill Original Briefcase
Price: $495
While it’s a bit of a splurge, the Filson Rugged Twill Original Briefcase is far more durable than your typical leather or faux leather options. It’s ideal for the office or overseeing a construction site. A supple leather handle gently molds to your hand, and the fabric is waxed to make the bag water-repellant. Everything is carefully crafted to last for generations of use. There’s also ample storage with an internal divider and two large pockets.
4. Most Versatile Work Bag: Molnia Classic 3-in-1 Laptop Backpack
Price: $52
If you hate trying to choose between a backpack, messenger bag, or briefcase, just buy the Molnia Classic 3-in-1 bag. It functions as all three, so carry it however you prefer. It also comes in four sizes to fit both 15.6 inch and 17.3 inch laptops. Despite having 12 pockets, it’s still compact and professional. The waterproof canvas is surprisingly durable and it comes in three colors – black, gray, and light gray.
5. Best Minimalist Backpack: Bellroy Classic Backpack 20L
Price: $150
The Bellroy Classic Backpack 20L is the adult version of your standard backpack. The clean front actually disguises a pocket for accessories and the top has a special pocket just for your phone and charger. Multiple pockets on the inside provide storage for an iPad, small laptop (13-inch), documents, water bottle, etc. The soft fabric and slicker straps prevent it from roughly rubbing against your clothing. If you want a backpack that doesn’t make you look like you’re skipping off to kindergarten, this is it. If you need more space and have a larger laptop, try the 38L version.
6. Best Laptop Bag: Timbuk2 Classic Messenger Bag
Price: $110 (large version, small and medium also available)
The best work bags for men are designed to protect your belongings, no matter how much you toss the bag in your car or get jostled on the subway or bus. The Timbuk2 Classic Messenger Bag does this extremely well with a padded laptop compartment and waterproof fabric. Buy the size you need for your laptop – small (13-inch), medium (15-inch), or large (17-inch). With numerous internal pockets and a side quick access pocket, there’s room for everything. Plus, this bag comes in a variety of colors and styles.
If you love messenger bags, check out this list of the most stylish messenger bags for men.
7. Best Budget-Friendly Briefcase: Bagsmart Laptop Briefcase
Price: $37
You don’t have to spend an entire week’s paycheck on a man’s work bag. The Bagsmart Laptop Briefcase looks great and functions well for carrying numerous accessories, including a 17.3-inch laptop. Easily organize everything with three main sections, which include a padded laptop section. Carry it with the vegan leather handle or the comfortable strap. The durable bag is made of waterproof fabric too.
8. Best Leather Backpack: Velez Full Grain Leather Backpack
Price: $240
The Velez Full Grain Leather Backpack strikes a perfect balance between high quality and affordable. Many comparable leather backpacks are twice as much. However, you get the superior craftsmanship the Velez brand is well known for. Plus, it’s one of the lighter-weight leather work bags for men at under four pounds. There are dedicated pockets for a 15-inch laptop and 12-inch tablet. Plus, there are also three outer pockets for quick access.
Picking the right bag is part of a personal preference and part of what you need to carry. Just make sure it works well with what you wear on a daily basis. For instance, all the bags above work perfectly with a business casual dress code. If you’re looking to add more variety to your wardrobe, try these men’s style subscription boxes.
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