If you are looking for a stylish messenger bag, look no further. These fashionable and functional bags come with many styles to choose from and are a convenient for school, work and to carry your laptop or ipad. Here are a few tips and reviews to help you find the best messenger bag for your needs.
Also known as a courier bag, a messenger bag is worn over one shoulder. It includes a strap that runs along your chest with the bag falling somewhere on your lower back. These bags are not only used by couriers, but have become a fashion staple.
Messenger bags are made of durable materials like canvas, Columbian leather, nylon and rubber. The most traditional and professional looking bags are made with leather while canvas also provides a nice and sturdy bag.
Secure closures are important if you travel a lot. You definitely want your main compartment to be secure while any exterior pockets should have zippered closures to keep your personal items safe.
The size of the compartments and pockets should also be considered. If you plan to use it to carry your laptop, it needs to be large enough to carry the computer easily. Also, if it has extra pockets, check to see their size to make sure it can easily carry personal items like cell phones, wallets, and other everyday items. Interior compartments that are padded will keep items like cameras and laptops safe from bumps and scratches.
The quality of the finishing will tell you how good the workmanship of the messenger bag is. If you see a neat row of double stitching, it will ensure a long service life for your bag.
Straps also add to the convenience of the bag, so look for straps that are adjustable and good quality. If you are carrying the bag while riding a bike, make sure the strap is customizable. It can be a safety issue if it gets in the way as you ride. You also want good quality buckles that connect the straps allowing it to sustain the tension it is carrying. Padding also adds to your comfort if you plan to carry the bag with a lot of items for a long time.
Best Messenger Bags Reviews
Touch of Leather Buffalo Hunter Leather Messenger Bag
If you are looking for a retro-looking bag, the Touch of Leather Buffalo Hunter Leather Messenger Bag is an 18-Inch leather messenger bag that is perfect for carrying your laptop, macbook or use as a briefcase. Made of distressed buffalo leather bag, this is a durable bag that features a canvas lining. Ideal for college students, this bag has enough room to store your books and comes with an adjustable strap.
This is a vintage-inspired design that has a unisex appeal. It features snap closures that are concealed, but give you easy access to the padded interior compartment that holds your laptop. This bag is made with 100% genuine leather and is handcrafted by a trained artisan.
PRADA Men’s Messenger Bag
If you want to look your best when out and about, you can use this PRADA messenger bag. It will help you make an impression at school and while in business meetings with clients as well as while you run errands. This bag is part of the company’s winter line but works and looks just as well in the spring or summer. It uses real black leather, which gives it a heavy and masculine look. You get all the storage that you need and some convenient features too.
Located on the top of the messenger bag are two handles made from black leather that attaches to the bag via metal hooks. Those hooks are durable enough that you can use the carrying handles daily without them breaking. If you prefer carrying the bag over your shoulder, you can use the shoulder strap, which unhooks from the bag in seconds too. A zippered compartment on the front lets you keep small items close by, but there is a nearly full zipper running across the center of the bag too. That zipper opens to reveal loads of hidden storage for your valuables.
Pros
*Includes both carrying handles and a shoulder strap
*Features the classic PRADA logo in the center
*Has a zippered storage pocket on the outside
*Gives you a lot of storage on the inside
Cons
*Doesn’t have the classic messenger bag design
*More expensive than other bags
Timbuk2 Classic Messenger Bag
This Timbuk2 messenger bag is a simple yet well made bag for men on the go. Reliability and robustness are two qualities you get with the Timbuk2 brand of bags. This model comes in a variety of colors and textures as well as sizes. X-small, Small and Medium. With the medium size, you’ll easily get a laptop in there as well as other things that you’d normally take to work with you.
It’s certainly not the biggest of messenger bags on the market, but it’s large enough for the modern needs of a commuter going to and from work, school or college.
The classic Timbuk2 bag isn’t waterproof, but it is water resistant, which means that the contents of your bag are protected against the weather. Dropping it into a lake? Well then you’ll have a problem!
Peak Design Messenger Bag and Field Pouch
The 15-inch Peak Design Messenger Bag and Field Pouch comes in a charcoal color and features innovations you don’t normally see in a messenger bag. With a classic style, the Peak Design Messenger Bag comes with a MagLatch closure, a padded seatbelt adjustable strap, an expandable protective shell, and FlexFold dividers that are inspired by origami.
A front access panel and capture clip attachment points are specifically designed for photography equipment. This bag has the perfect pocket for anything you want to carry in it featuring a versatile set of pockets that let you carry pretty much anything. It is ideal for commuters and travelers who need to carry personal items with them.
Designed for one-handed opening, the MagLatch gives you added security while the four ladder lock points and magnetic clasp create a soft lock-free closure. It also features a protected and dedicated laptop pocket that you can access without opening the main compartment. Plus, you get front access that is expandable for your smaller items.
Perfect laptop messenger bag.
Berchirly Vintage Military Men Canvas Messenger Bag
As the title suggests, this is a military-style messenger bag that is perfect for travel and can carry your laptop. This shoulder bag has a vintage inspiration and is constructed of 100% leather and high-density canvas. It buckles in the front and comes with two leather straps.
The main opening allows for quick access with its magnetic buttons, and the side pockets come with buckles for security. The wide shoulder strap gives you a comfortable fit while the rest of the opening on the bag feature metal snap buttons and cowhide fasteners to complete the bag’s theme.
The main compartment has an old-fashioned appeal that will fit your laptop, notebooks, wallet, books, and cell phone. You can also carry smaller items like your phone charger in the side pockets.
Louis Vuitton District Messenger Bag
Louis Vuitton is a name often associated with luxurious and high-end merchandise. The same company makes a messenger bag that helps you store everything you need in style. Available in several patterns and prints, each one features an official print from the company. The inside of the bag includes a tag that shows you it’s the real deal too. That tag uses a deep and dark color that works with the pattern of the bag as well as the metallic accents on the exterior.
At 12.6 by 11.4 by 3.1 inches, this messenger bag is large enough for everything you regularly carry. You can use it when transporting books to school or when heading off on vacation. It has a trim made from real cowhide leather and a textile lining that keeps your belongings from rubbing together. There is also a flat pocket hidden beneath the flap for important items and two pockets on the inside that are each the right size for iPad storage. This Louis Vuitton messenger bag includes an adjustable strap that is easy to use and a magnetic closure that keeps the flap shut.
Pros
*Features a textile lining that keeps your belongings safe
*The adjustable strap helps you change the fit of the bag based on your body
*Includes the Louis Vuitton tag that shows you it’s authentic
*Available in several prints/patterns
Cons
*Very expensive
*Has a slightly masculine look
Samsonite Colombian Leather Flapover Briefcase
You can release your inner college professor with this Samsonite bag that works as both a messenger bag and a briefcase. It uses real leather in a deep brown shade but also comes in a black leather option. That leather will slowly develop signs of wear over the years to make the bag look even better. The Samsonite logo appears on the bottom edge of the bag in a small plaque.
When used as a briefcase, you can carry the bag via the small handle on the top, which uses the same type of leather as the base. It also has an adjustable shoulder strap for carrying it as a messenger bag. This strap has extra padding to reduce fatigue and stress on your body. If you want to reduce the overall weight and size of the bag, you can remove that strap via the clips on each end. Inside the bag are several compartments and pockets for valuable items. It has a large compartment that can hold a laptop of up to 15.6 inches and a front pocket for a tablet or iPad.
Pros
*Functions as both a briefcase and a messenger bag
*Includes a dedicated compartment for your laptop
*Uses real leather in one of two colors
*Has a removable and adjustable shoulder strap with extra padding
Cons
*Might be too heavy or bulky for daily wear
*Only works with laptops of 15.6 inches in size
Kenneth Cole Reaction Show Business Leather Colombian Business Portfolio
The Kenneth Cole Reaction line includes many products for both men and women such as this business portfolio. Designed for daily use, it’s perfect for carrying books and other supplies to school and for lugging your computer and other devices to work. It measures 16 by 12.5 by 4 inches, which makes it smaller than other messenger bags and easier to carry every day. With the two metal buckles on the front, you can secure the bag shut and keep your items safe, though you’ll need both hands to release those buckles and get inside.
Made from Colombian leather, this messenger bag has an interior compartment with added padding that can hold a small laptop. For the items that you need most often, the back pocket is the best spot to use. That pocket gives you full access to items without requiring that you open the bag. It also has a shoulder strap that extends to 52 inches to fit your body style and height. An organizer in the front pocket can hold a cell phone and other small items too.
Pros
*Low price tag makes it suitable for all budgets
*The buckle straps on the front keep the bag securely closed
*Uses full-grain leather from Colombian cows
*Includes different interior compartments for storage
Cons
*Opening and closing the buckles can be hard
*Can show signs of damage or wear and tear
FRYE Men’s Logan Messenger Bag
FRYE has a good reputation for the boots and other products that the company makes, which use real leather such as this men’s messenger bag. The Logan bag has a classic look that you’ll like showing off as you travel or head to work. Though the bag comes in several colors, all of those shades use Italian leather that feels supple and soft. The wears and rubs shown on the leather will only improve over time to make the bag look better as it ages.
The adjustable leather strap lets you change how you wear and carry the bag. It has a metal tag attached to the side that shows you this is an authentic FRYE product. The leather flap on the front lifts to show off the large compartment inside. This compartment has more than 30 slots for your cards and photos that allow you to carry extra cash too. It also has four pockets on the sides for small items and two zippered pockets that keep your valuables protected. FRYE gives you a large compartment suitable for a laptop computer inside the Logan messenger bag too.
Pros
*Made from 100% real leather with a soft interior
*Available in multiple colors
*Uses a magnetic closure to keep the bag secure
*Features four side pockets and other compartments for your belongings
Cons
*May arrive with some damaged stitches
*The leather isn’t as nice as you might expect
Filson Men’s Field Bag
Made of heavyweight twill with leather trimming, the Filson Men’s Field Bag is a sturdy bag that can carry files, a laptop, or books. It features two side pockets and a slim back pocket along with buckle straps that are adjustable to keep the top flap secure.
Inside you will find two flap front pockets and interior that is unlined. The Filson Men’s Field Bag comes with a top handle and an optional, adjustable shoulder strap.
Picchio Men’s Genuine Delta Brown Leather Messenger Bag
Featuring genuine handcrafted leather, the Picchio Messenger Bag comes with adjustable shoulder straps and YKK zipper for added durability and strength. This is a partially unlined messenger bag that can fit a laptop up to 14-inches. All accessories on the bag are made from real brass material.
Featuring a buckle closure, the front flap has a simple snap to give you easy access to your belongings. There is a separate laptop slot from the large inside compartment, plus the Picchio Messenger Bag includes a foam padding layer to protect your things from bumps and accidental scratches.
BRASS TACKS Leathercraft Men’s Messenger Bag
As its name suggests, the heavy-duty Brass Tacks Leathercraft Men’s Messenger Bag is made of genuine leather and waxed canvas. Large enough to carry a 14-inch laptop, this messenger bag has a vintage look and feel with multi-functional interior pockets for tidy organization. It features a large capacity outer cargo pocket design that is not only fashionable, but functional, with handy side pockets for your umbrella.
Using high-end cowhide materials, this is a durable and solid bag that will not scratch. Its retro style is complemented by a high-density canvas that is also scratch-resistant and strong. Plus, it is water-resistant featuring a wax treatment on the canvas.
The Brass Tacks Messenger Bag features a large-capacity design with an inner padded bag and a zipper closure. The theme is carried through with a genuine leather zipper handle and antiqued finishes. This is the perfect bag for travel, school, or business.
Lifewit Men’s Messenger Bag
Another vintage-inspired bag on our list, the Lifewit Men’s Messenger Bag can carry your laptop, work files, or books. This is a versatile, but stylish messenger bag that is made of high-quality cowhide and durable canvas. It has a multi-purpose design that is perfect for those that are always on the move.
Using premium craftsmanship and materials, this is the perfect companion for your everyday life. Featuring both style and functionality, you get multiple compartments to keep you organized and added security with two leather closing adjustable straps. It also includes a shoulder strap that is both adjustable and detachable that features mesh padding to eliminate shoulder fatigue.
With a total of 12 compartments, the Lifewit Men’s Messenger Bag gives you a variety of storage options that include a large zippered compartment where you can store bigger items. The laptop compartment includes padding and can hold a large laptop measuring up to 17 ½ inches. You will also find several smaller compartments to store things like keys and your cell phone.
Sweetbriar Classic Messenger Bag
The vintage-inspired Sweetbriar Classic Messenger Bag / satchel is designed to be an everyday bag for all-purpose use. Featuring rugged durability, it still has a modern feel at an affordable price. Made of durable cotton canvas, the Sweetbriar includes metal accents and a Velcro closure on the front flap.
This is an easy to carry messenger bag that includes an easy to pick up top handle and a shoulder pad for added convenience and comfort. This retro military-style bag only weighs 1 ½ pounds and is perfect for travel and school use.
RAVUO Messenger Bag for Men
The water-resistant RAVUO Messenger Bag for men can be used as a briefcase or book bag. You can feel safe carrying your books and laptop with its water-resistant canvas construction and heavy-duty buckle for added security. There is also a quick-release buckle that gives you easy access to the interior.
Featuring a padded shoulder pad and top handle, this is an easy to carry messenger back that features several compartments and pockets to help you get organized. It can be used as a cross body or shoulder bag as well as a briefcase. Its unique style and vintage look make it perfect for use on any occasion.
Kattee Military Tote Messenger Bag
Made of both leather and canvas, the Kattee Military Messenger Bag is roomy and can fit a laptop up to 16-inches and is inspired by an old air force messenger bag look. With its vintage style and sturdy unisex design, you can use this bag for a range of occasions. Inside the main compartment, you can easily fit a laptop up to 15-inches.
Made with 100% cow leather and high-density canvas, it comes with double leather straps and front buckles that carry through the theme. Magnetic buttons are included in the main flap for easy access to your laptop while the side pockets feature buckles for extra security for your wallet and cell phone.
The ideal combination of versatility, sturdiness, and timeless design, the Kattee Military Tote Messenger Bag has a retro-style of dark brown leather that works easily with any modern look. This design works for many practical purposes and proves the most security for your valuables inside.
Messenger Bag for Men and Women by Aaron Leather
A stylish hybrid of leather and canvas, the Messenger Bag for Men and Women by Aaron Leather is perfect for traveling or for work and school. It is spacious and durable making it a good choice for school business trips, or weekend getaways. The shoulder strap is adjustable making it easy to carry wherever you may go.
Made with premium craftsmanship and materials, the Messenger Bag by Aaron Leather is constructed with high-quality cowhide and durable canvas, so it will last you years. This is a practical design that is easy to clean, plus its vintage-inspired look will never go out of style. Featuring durable metal zippers and antique brass fittings to carry out the theme, you won’t have to worry about any of the exterior pockets tearing.
Under the buckles, you will find two easy release latches for easy access to your belonging. The inner compartments give you enough room to carry books and a laptop up to 13.3 inches. This versatile and spacious messenger bag also features a pad that is embedded to protect what you are carrying, plus the neutral color works for any occasion.
WOWBOX Messenger Bag for Men
The canvas WOWBOX Messenger Bag for Men is made of canvas and fits up to a 17-inch laptop, making it the perfect laptop messenger bag. This is a classic, but casual style bag that is perfect for school, work, or even shopping. Inside you will find several pockets to keep your belongings neat and organized.
The ergonomically designed WOWBOX also comes with a thick padded compartment that gives your belongings the most protection, and it will keep your laptop from getting scratched or bumped. It also features magnetic snaps that you can open with one hand while the wide shoulder strap comes with removable mesh that reduces should fatigue and pain. You will also discover rear, full-sized pockets with anti-theft zippers to give keep your personal items safe.
Berchirly Men PU Leather Messenger Shoulder bags
Constructed of PU leather, the Berchirly Men PU Leather Messenger Shoulder bag has a classic retro style. Both durable and stylish, it comfortable to carry and can be used by both men and women. You can use it as a shoulder or sling bag for commutes, business trips, or outdoor activities.
The Berchirly Messenger Bag can carry up to a 15-inch laptop and comes with two pockets that buckle for quick access, making it the ideal laptop bag. In the main compartment, you have a large pocket along with two smaller pockets for your phone and wallet, plus a zipper pocket for change. There is also a zippered pocket on the back for additional items.
The front flap of the Berchirly Messenger Bag features a simple to open push-lock closure for easy access. This is a great bag to use as a briefcase, book bag, or for hiking.