The Ultimate Guide To Choosing The Best Man Bags

Man bags are having a moment. From sporty sling bags to boxy crossbody bags, there's a style to suit every taste and need. And it's not just about fashion – man bags offer a practical solution to overflowing pockets and misplaced possessions. Whether you're commuting to the office or heading to the gym, the right bag will keep your valuables organised and easily accessible. So, which bag should you choose? Well, that depends on your lifestyle. If you're always on the move, a backpack or messenger bag might be best. If you need something for work, a sleek briefcase or tote bag could be a better option. And if you're looking for a versatile bag that can take you from the gym to the office, a duffle bag or weekender might be the perfect choice. Whatever your needs, there's a man bag out there that's sure to suit your style and lifestyle.

Backpacks

Best Overall: Cotopaxi Travel Pack

This backpack is durable, spacious, water-resistant, and comfortable to wear when fully packed. It has a clamshell opening with a large, mesh zippered pocket on one side and two smaller zippered pockets on the other. There is also a medium-size zippered pocket on the front of the bag, as well as a small zippered pocket at the very front for easy access to items like a passport or phone. The back of the bag also has a padded laptop compartment with a divider to hold more than one device. This backpack is ideal for flying, work trips, camping, road-tripping, and more.

Best for Long Trips: Away The Outdoor Convertible Backpack 45L

This backpack is spacious and comfortable. It has multiple large compartments, compression straps, and a few pockets ideal for organizing clothes, gear, and accessories. The padded shoulder straps are supportive and keep you comfortable when walking for long periods. The convenient duffel handles allow you to switch up your carrying style if you get fatigued. This backpack also has a well-padded laptop sleeve that protected a laptop when the bag was thrown off a counter three times during testing.

Best Value: Matein Travel Laptop Backpack

This backpack has over 100,000 Amazon reviews with an overall 4.7-star rating. It comes with an impressive amount of design features but is still budget-friendly at under $40. The backpack has designated pockets for your laptop, phone, and pens, plus a key fob hook and an external USB port with a cable for charging devices. It may not be the most aesthetically pleasing backpack on the market, but for its price and features, it is a great choice.

Best Carry-on: BAGSMART Travel Laptop Backpack

This backpack outperformed pricier backpacks in tests. It is expandable so you can alternate between a 30- or 40-liter bag as needed and has compression straps so you can fit the most while cutting down on bulk. The backpack boasts interior and exterior zippered compartments as well as two packing cubes, a shoe pouch, and a laptop sleeve. It may not be the most stylish carry-on available, but when it comes to a top-performing carry-on backpack you can take on your adventures without spending too much, this is a great pick.

Best Leather: Leatherology Sloan Backpack

This backpack is made from buttery soft leather and has a built-in laptop sleeve, two side pockets for water bottles, a zippered exterior pocket, and two interior pockets. Its main compartment can fit everyday essentials, and you can also opt for the Sloan Mini if you want a smaller backpack. Choose from several neutral shades, but note that each backpack may have a different texture that varies from a fine to a lightly pebbled grain.

Best Hiking: Osprey Farpoint Men's Travel Backpack

Osprey backpacks are recommended by analysts for hiking and backpacking. The Farpoint backpack provides excellent lumbar support, thanks to a wide, removable hip belt equipped with padding. It has a compartment for a 16-inch laptop or a water reservoir, plus interior pockets, exterior loops to hook on additional items like your water bottle, and front compression straps. Mesh padding along the straps and back provides ample airflow. The backpack also has a built-in whistle you can use while hiking.

Best Minimalist: Osprey Nebula 32

The Osprey Nebula 32 is a great everyday backpack with lots of organizational pockets, a clamshell-style laptop compartment, and a great suspension system for handling heavy loads. It has a streamlined, supportive fit and heaps of useful features that can seamlessly carry you from school and work to the multi-activity fun of the weekend.

Best for Photographers: Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L

This backpack has a main compartment that is spacious enough to fit clothes for at least four days, and its design is helpful for packing bulky items like jackets and shoes. Designed with photographers in mind, this backpack functions similarly to a camera bag. It can fit camera cubes, and it has four points of entry to the main compartment, allowing travelers to quickly grab clothes or accessories without unzipping the backpack. There is a padded laptop sleeve and stretchy side pockets for water bottles or a camera tripod.

Messenger bags

Timbuk2 Classic Messenger Bag

This well-priced, durable, and exceptionally sturdy bag is made of Cordura, an extra-sturdy, water-resistant nylon fabric. It has a waterproof lining and lots of pockets, including a padded laptop sleeve. The bag comes in a wide range of sizes and colours and can be customised with features like extra handles and pockets. The shoulder strap is padded with OrthoLite foam, making it comfortable to carry, and can be adjusted for left- or right-handed carrying. The bag also has a small nylon handle on the back, making it easy to pick up and move around.

Waterfield Vitesse Cycling Musette

This attractive, waxed-canvas messenger bag has distressed leather accents and a smooth nylon shoulder strap. It has a distinctive vintage aesthetic and a compact size, making it perfect for those who want to travel light. The bag has limited internal organisation, with just two open-top pockets, and no dedicated laptop pocket, but it can fit a laptop up to 14 inches. The canvas body of the bag lacks structure and padding, so it is recommended to use a laptop sleeve for added protection.

Matt & Nat Martel Vegan Messenger Bag

This structured, tailored canvas bag has vegan leather accents and a sophisticated, polished design. It has a spacious, well-organised interior with a smartphone pocket and a padded laptop sleeve that can fit devices up to 13 inches. The bag also has a removable, well-padded shoulder strap that can be adjusted up to 50 inches in length. It can also be carried by its vegan leather top handle, like a briefcase.

Chrome Citizen Messenger Bag

This bag was originally designed for bike messengers, so it is functional, ergonomic, and durable. It has a quick-release, seatbelt-style buckle and a stabilizer strap for weight distribution and stability. The bag is made of 1050D nylon, a strong, durable basket-weave fabric, and has a waterproof, three-ply fabric interior. It comes in nine colours and offers plenty of organisation, although it does not have a dedicated laptop pocket. The shoulder strap is padded and can be adjusted up to 35.5 inches in length.

Waterfield Executive Leather Messenger

This upscale, full-grain leather bag has a timeless look and a removable shoulder strap, allowing it to be carried as a messenger bag or a briefcase. It also has a rear panel that slides onto a wheeled suitcase, making it travel-friendly. The bag is available in black, tan, and chocolate brown, with a smooth finish on the black bag and a more rugged, matte finish on the other options. The interior is lined with soft, water-resistant nylon in a rich gold colour and has multiple compartments, including padded sleeves for a laptop and tablet. The shoulder strap can be adjusted up to 64 inches in length.

Duffel bags

Halfday Travel The Garment Duffel

This duffel bag is perfect for those who want to carry a suit and a pair of dress shoes when travelling. It is laid out flat like a garment bag for packing shirts, blazers, and dress pants, and then folded and zipped into a duffel shape for the rest of your clothes. It is spacious, durable, and water-resistant, making it a great option for short trips.

Mack Weldon Atlas Duffle

This gym bag duffel is ideal for those who want to keep their gym gear organised. It features a separate shoe compartment, as well as two special treatment compartments – one insulated and one ventilated – for storing snacks and keeping your clothes clean. It also has a rubber bottom to prevent slipping, and adjustable shoulder straps for comfort.

Yeti Panga Waterproof Duffel

The Yeti Panga duffel bag is designed to keep your belongings dry, with a durable zipper and puncture and abrasion-resistant material. It comes in three different sizes and features comfortable dry haul straps that can be worn as a backpack. The inside of the bag is spacious, with easy-to-access mesh pockets to keep your valuables safe.

Tumi Double Expansion Travel Satchel

Tumi bags are a popular choice for travelling, and this duffel bag is perfect for long-distance trips. It features plenty of slots, zips, and patches for keeping your belongings organised, including pockets for your tablet or laptop, keys, snacks, books, and magazines. It also has an add-a-bag sleeve so you can easily attach it to your suitcase.

Patagonia Black Hole Duffel 70L

The Patagonia Black Hole duffel bag is a great option for weekend getaways, month-long excursions, or overnight visits. It has a capacity of up to 100 litres and can be carried like a backpack or slung over the shoulder. It also packs down and folds in on itself for easy storage.

Lululemon Wunderlust Weekender Bag 48L

The Lululemon Wunderlust duffel bag is perfect for those who need a bag that can keep up with their active lifestyle. It has a 40L capacity, large open access, and multiple pockets, making it ideal for carrying boxing gloves, wraps, changes of clothes, footwear, and other gear. It is also water-repellent, so you don't have to worry about your belongings getting wet.

Bellroy Lite Duffel

The Bellroy Lite duffel is a lightweight and compact option, but still roomy enough to carry all your essentials. It is made with durable ripstop fabric and features smart compartments to keep your belongings organised. It is perfect for packing light, whether for an office-to-gym day or an overnight stay.

Troubadour Embark Duffle

The Troubadour Embark duffel is a versatile bag that can be used for business or casual occasions. It features a spacious main compartment, extra pockets for stashing last-minute items, and a separate shoe compartment with a waterproof, breathable, and antimicrobial lining. It is compact enough to fit in the overhead cabin as a carry-on bag and features a non-slip strap for comfortable carrying.

Rains Hilo Weekend Bag

The Rains Hilo duffel bag is a simple and efficient option, with a signature waterproof fabric and a detachable shoulder strap for easy carrying. It has one main compartment, a front zip pocket, and a side mesh pocket, so you may need to get creative with your packing organisation.

Everlane The ReNew Transit Weekender

The Everlane ReNew Transit duffel bag is a versatile option that can be used for long-distance excursions or daily commutes. It features a padded laptop sleeve, two water bottle holders, exterior zip pockets, and the option to carry it crossbody, over the shoulder, or in your hand. It is also water-resistant and durable.

The North Face Base Camp Duffel M

The North Face Base Camp duffel bag is a durable and stylish option, made with heavy-duty recycled body and boot materials and a water-repellent finish. It can be carried like a backpack and features well-padded straps and water-resistant zippers. However, it does not have any special laptop compartments or unique pocket designs.

Crossbody bags

The Sporty Sling Bag

Sling bags are perfect for the multi-tasker who needs a bag with plenty of pockets for items like sunglasses, AirPods, keys, and a wallet. They can be easily slung over your back while biking or skateboarding. When choosing a sling bag, consider the style and material. For a more casual look, go for canvas or nylon, or opt for wear-resistant leather for a more sophisticated aesthetic.

The Boxy Crossbody Bag

The boxy crossbody bag is the artsy alternative to the sling bag. It is perfect for those who want to add a bit of style to their look, such as art students or film buffs. When choosing a boxy crossbody bag, consider the shape, style, and size. Go for a horizontal or vertical bag, depending on your preference, and choose between a rugged or sophisticated style. If you just need to carry the essentials, a mini bag will do, but if you want to be prepared for any eventuality, opt for an oversized style.

The Practical Messenger Bag

Messenger bags are a great alternative to backpacks, offering more space and easier access to your belongings. They are perfect for carrying heavier items like books or laptops. When choosing a messenger bag, consider the style, material, and design. Go for a front closure with a buckle or a convenient zipper closure, and choose between a sporty, weatherproof design or a classic leather look. If you need to stay organised, opt for a bag with multiple pockets.

The Everyday Crossbody Bag

For a versatile bag that can be used every day, look for one with a simple design and a durable fabric. A good everyday crossbody bag should have multiple compartments to keep your essentials organised and a comfortable strap that can be adjusted to your preferred length. Some bags even have removable straps, allowing you to switch up your style and carry the bag in your hand or wear it across your body.

The Luxury Crossbody Bag

If you're looking for a luxurious crossbody bag, consider investing in a high-quality leather bag from a reputable brand. These bags offer a combination of luxury and durability, making them perfect for both sightseeing and fancy dinners. Look for a bag with a secure closure, like a zip or a lock, to keep your valuables safe.

Tote bags

When choosing a tote bag, consider the style and material. Do you want something more casual, like a beachy canvas tote, or are you looking for something to take to work? For a casual, beachy vibe, go for a canvas tote in a fun colour or pattern. For a work tote, opt for something more structured in leather or heavy-duty cotton canvas.

The Best Tote Bag Overall: L.L. Bean Boat and Tote, $35

This tote bag is the best value for money, and it comes in dozens of colours and four different sizes, with two handle length options. It's made from heavyweight canvas with reinforced handles and double-stitched seams, and it's been tested to hold up to 500 lbs.

The Best Upgrade Tote Bag: Filson Open Tote Bag, $275

The Filson tote bag is a great investment piece. It's made from water-repellent, abrasion-resistant cotton twill and features a reinforced base and soft leather straps. It comes in tan, otter green, and navy, with or without a zipper.

The Best City Tote Bag: Alex Mill The Perfect Weekday Tote, $175

This tote bag is perfect for city living. It has long and short straps so you can alternate between the two, and the snap buttons allow you to adjust the size of the bag. It comes in six colours, including navy, olive, white, black, and red.

The Best Outdoor Tote Bag: Topo Designs Mountain Utility Tote, $99

If you need a spacious tote bag, the Topo Designs Mountain Utility Tote is a great option. It has a 33-litre capacity and features a removable padded shoulder strap, a cinchable top closure, interior and exterior zip pockets, gear loops, and a carabiner clip. It's made from 100% recycled nylon, so it's lightweight and environmentally friendly.

The Best Leather Tote Bag: Frank Clegg Tall Leather Tote, $775

If you're looking for a sophisticated and durable tote bag, the Frank Clegg Tall Leather Tote is a great choice. It's made from tumbled leather that gets better with age and comes with a lifetime guarantee. You can customise it with eight different finishes and add a zipper or pockets if desired.

The Best Packable Tote Bag: Montbell Pocketable Light Tote, $47

The Montbell Pocketable Light Tote is a great option if you need something that can be packed down into another bag. When unfurled, it has a spacious 28-litre capacity, an outer zip pocket, and a water-resistant drawstring closure. It also has a water bottle pocket on the outside and comes in several colours, including khaki green, black, navy, and red.

Frequently asked questions