The 13 Best Work Bags for Women of 2023, According to Our Editors
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From a functional $18 option on Amazon to one of Meghan Markle’s favorites
People / Marcus Millan
Any coffee shop commuter or office-goer would agree that a work bag is more than just a bag; the difference between a mediocre and great one is, in fact, significant. When you tote around a bag for work, it needs to be durable, easy to organize, able to protect your laptop, and also have enough room to fit all your day’s essentials — and perhaps even be versatile enough to bring with you for post-work activities, whether that's a workout class or happy hour.
“One of the biggest trends I'm seeing regarding work bags is overall versatility of use,” says celebrity stylist Chelsea Volpe. “For example, many working women are using the same bag for their morning workout, office bag, and even transitioning it into their evening bag. A medium to full-size leather tote is a perfect bag to transition from the gym to the office to a happy hour cocktail with friends.”
To start our search, we researched popular work bags on the market, spoke with experts, pored over reviews, and tested most of them ourselves, to ultimately align on this list of the best work bags for women.
Keep reading to discover PEOPLE's picks, as well as more expert shopping advice.
Best Budget: Hoxis Minimalist Clean Cut Pebbled Faux Leather Tote
Who It’s Good For
This minimal work tote is great for the occasional commuter or anyone that's looking for a functional, stylish tote at a very reasonable price point.
Who It’s Not Good For
Anyone that needs more compartments for organizing would appreciate other options on this list.
If you’re looking for a quality work bag at an affordable price, you can’t beat this option that’s available on Amazon. The Hoxis pebbled faux leather tote has garnered a 4.4 out of 5-star rating from over 3,500 reviews. That’s proof enough that this work bag is worth it, especially since it costs less than $20 (yes, you read that right).
In terms of function, the faux leather material is easy to clean, and while it’s not lined, it does feature a snap closure as well as a detachable wristlet that’s perfect for storing things like your blue light glasses, sunglasses, or pens.
There are not a lot of storage solutions compared to others on this list, but there is one interior pocket that would be great for keeping your keys or any small items you want to keep from getting lost in bottom of the bag. Despite the under-$20 price tag, the pebbled texture looks elevated enough to resemble genuine leather.
Price at time of publish: $17.90
Dimensions: 16.5 x 11.8 x 2.7 inches | Material: Embossed pebbled faux leather | Colors: Black, brown, dark red, green, navy, ivory, new beige, sea blue, and more | Storage: Interior pocket and a detachable wristlet | Laptop size: 13 to 16 inches
Best Everyday: LeSportsac Everyday Zip Tote
Who It's Good For
This LeSportsac tote offers a casual feel that's perfect for everyday in addition to the office — we love the mix of fun prints and classic colorways.
Who It's Not Good For
If you're looking for a sleek option made from leather (or vegan leather), we recommend scrolling down for our other recommendations.
We simply can't get enough of the LeSportsac Everyday Zip Tote; it's practically the perfect tote for daily life, from heading to the office to stocking up at your local farmer's market. It comfortably fits a 13-inch laptop, and the top can be expanded to add an extra 2 inches of vertical space, which is especially helpful if you're always lugging around an XL water bottle like we are.
There is a decent amount of storage solutions for your knick knacks, too: It's designed with a smaller exterior pocket (perfect for keeping your phone accessible), exterior full-length zipped pocket, two interior front wall pockets, and an interior back wall zipped pocket (for your laptop). It also has a zip top-closure for peace of mind when commuting in the rain and preventing everything from falling out.
Price at time of publish: $110
Dimensions: 12.2 x 12.2 x 4.33 inches (at bottom); 14 inches tall when expanded | Material: Recycled ripstop fabric | Colors: Black Solid, Thunder Solid, Braided Deboss Black, Navy Blue Solid, Mason Maidras Print, Daydream Embroidery, Painted Garden Print | Storage: 2 exterior pockets, 3 interior pockets, 1 detachable, expandable top | Laptop size: 13 inches
Best Everyday, Less Expensive: Lululemon Side-Cinch Shopper Bag 18L
If you're a fan of the Lululemon belt bag, we may be able to convince you to invest in the Lululemon Shopper Bag. This tote is perfect for the commuter who prefers to squeeze in a yoga or cycling class before heading into the office (and wants something they can tote around for weekend errands, too). In short, it's the perfect gym-to-office bag on account of its nylon exterior (a.k.a. durable and easy to clean), roomy interior, and lightweight feel.
It features an adjustable closure that you can cinch up for added security to keep all your work (and workout) essentials safe. The smaller interior pocket makes it easy to find your keys, ID, and skincare essentials like setting powder (for post-gym touch-ups) and lip balm so you don't have to go digging in the bottom of your bag. Plus, with a 16-inch length, this tote easily fits most laptop sizes.
(If you love this Lululemon bag but want something just a Iittle more elevated for the office, we recommend the All Day Essentials Tote Bag.)
Price at time of publish: $58
Dimensions: 16.1 x 5.1 x 14 inches | Material: 100% recycled nylon | Colors: Utility blue, Kohlrabi green, mango dream | Storage: Exterior pocket, interior pocket | Laptop size: 13 to 16 inches
Best Convertible: Fastfairy 2-in-1 Waterproof Tote Bag Backpack
Who It’s Good For
For a convertible tote and backpack hybrid that's also waterproof, it comes at relatively affordable price point.
Who It’s Not Good For
While it is waterproof and machine-washable, this isn't a super durable option meant last for years.
This highly functional tote bag is what Commerce Project Manager Dhara Patel uses to haul around her work items. "I love this tote because, unlike a classic tote, it easily converts to a backpack," says Patel. "I can fit my laptop and Owala water bottle in it, with space to spare for any toiletries or essentials I want to take with me. Plus, it's easy to keep tidy, with two pockets on the inside and a massive one on the outside."
Not only that, but the polyester material is waterproof, so rest assured your items will be protected even if you get caught in some rain or spill a bit of water (or coffee, let's be real) on the exterior. Even though it's designed in a light beige color (which can of course be a stain magnet), it can be conveniently machine-washed to keep it clean and dirt-free.
Price at time of publish: $25.99 ($18.19 with coupon)
Dimensions: 11 x 3.9 x 15.35 inches | Material: Waterproof polyester | Colors: Beige | Storage: Exterior pocket, key clip, interior laptop sleeve, two interior pockets | Laptop size: 13 to 16 inches
Best for Travel: Béis The Work Tote
Who It’s Good For
Travelers needing to keep their laptop and work essentials secure and portable will love this offering from Béis, which includes a water bottle holder, a trolley pass-through, and much more.
Who It’s Not Good For
Anyone wanting a more structured work bag or something more durable or machine-washable.
This tote from Béis, Shay Mitchell’s travel brand, has a lot going for it: large exterior pockets, two strap lengths, removable shoulder padding, a trolley sleeve, key leash, two water bottle pockets, two laptop sleeves, several interior pockets, and zip closure.
Celebrity stylist Cindy Conroy relies on this tote for her everyday work needs. "I am obsessed with this tote because it meets everything on the preverbal wish list, without compromising on aesthetic," she says. "It has a removable pouch for smaller everyday essentials, the body of the bag is deep enough to fit a laptop comfortably, and it looks stealthily chic while putting in work."
For PEOPLE Senior Commerce Writer Madison Yauger, on the other hand, it's her go-to bag for travel. "I used [this tote] in black for about 10 months and I loved it (still do), but I had the large size and it got to be a bit cumbersome for lugging around the city," she says. "That said, it's my favorite work bag to bring on trips, because it holds two laptops, has a sleek (and surprisingly sturdy) design, and comes with a trolley sleeve so you can throw it on your suitcase when traveling."
Price at time of publish: $128
Dimensions: 14.25 x 11 x 6 inches | Material: Polyester, faux leather, recycled polyester | Colors: Black croc, cognac croc, black, beige, plaid | Laptop size: 13 to 16 inches
Best Messenger: Rains Messenger Bag
Who It’s Good For
Shoppers wanting a messenger work bag that’s waterproof and easy to wipe clean will find the perfect match in this Rains bag.
Who It’s Not Good For
Those who don't need to haul much to work with them may appreciate something more compact.
For a laptop bag that’s durable and easy to tote, we recommend the Rains messenger bag. Available in all black or tonal taupe, the bag seamlessly fits a laptop and other slim items you need to bring to work with you, like notebooks, a tablet, and folders.
Don’t let the shape fool you, though — there’s still plenty of space to fit other items, as well, from pen cases or makeup bags to chargers and snacks. Your stuff will stay safe and secure thanks to the zippered top, carabiner buckle closure, and interior pockets. The best part is that the polyester exterior is super easy to clean (as well as waterproof), so this messenger bag will look good as new for quite a long time.
Price at time of publish: $110
Dimensions: 11.8 x 16 x 4.3 inches | Material: Polyester | Colors: Black, tonal taupe | Laptop size: 13 to 16 inches
Best Water-Resistant: Quince Revive Nylon Large Tote
Who It's Good For
Quince is known for its high-quality goods at relatively affordable price points, and this bag is no exception; made from a water-resistant nylon material, it's a durable yet sleek option for your daily commute.
Who It's Not Good For
This tote features a magnetic snap closure, making your goods a bit less secure compared to the zip-top closure bags on this list.
Many don't associate "durable" and "water-resistant" with a chic work bag, but this Quince nylon tote proves that thinking wrong. We love Quince because they offer high-quality goods (made in the same factories as some designer brands) at non-luxury prices. For example, this $90 bag would traditionally be marked up to around $200, according to the brand. Plus, it offers free shipping and 365-day returns, which is a much longer return period than most other online retailers.
Made from precisely 27 plastic water bottles with recycled leather trim, this bag features spacious storage so you can fit everything you need, from your 13- or 15-inch laptop to your reusable water bottle, and so much more. In addition to the various pockets and compartments, the laptop sleeve is padded to keep it safe and sound on your commute. And, of course, the nylon material is water resistant and durable, so it's bound to last even in the wettest of seasons.
Price at time of publish: $89.90
Dimensions: 13 x 17 x 5 inches | Material: Nylon made from recycled plastic water bottles, recycled leather trim | Colors: Black, Olive, Oxford Blue | Storage: 2 exterior slip pockets, two interior slip pockets, 1 internal zip pocket, key ring holder | Laptop size: 13 to 15 inches
Best Organization: Calpak Haven Laptop Tote Bag
Who It’s Good For
Anyone who has a lot to organize for their daily commute will appreciate all the compartments and features of this faux leather tote.
Who It’s Not Good For
Those looking for a work bag that’s less expensive or anyone who wants a bag made from genuine leather should look to other options on this list.
The Calpak Haven Laptop Bag is for the organized-obsessed commuter — let us walk you through why. In addition to the two strap options (one is removable), the tote comes with a removable interior insert that can house everything you could possibly need to take with you.
Designed with one big pocket for a 13- to 16-inch laptop or iPad, three small interior pockets, and four exterior pockets, the insert is a dream (and comes with the bag, not sold separately). The insert snaps into place inside the tote so everything stays safe and secure. Not to mention it’s great for traveling, too, thanks to the luggage sleeve that makes it easy to slip onto your suitcase.
Price at time of publish: $178
Dimensions: 16 x 12.5 x 5 inches | Material: Polyurethane, polyester | Colors: Forest, Toffee, Espresso, Black, Birch, Petal | Laptop size: 13 to 16 inches
Best Machine-Washable: Rothy’s The Lightweight Tote
Who It’s Good For
Not only is this tote super lightweight as the name suggests, it's also surprisingly durable, versatile, and spacious.
Who It’s Not Good For
While there is a clip to attach a separate pouch, this tote isn't designed with pockets or a laptop sleeve.
PEOPLE's Senior Commerce Editor Erika Reals opts for this Rothy's tote on days where her schedule includes a range of commitments, from morning coffee dates to office meetings to post-work fitness classes. "For the days I'm literally and figuratively all over the place, this Rothy's tote saves me," she says. "Because of its open, spacious interior, I can pack, for example, a set of workout clothes, a book for the subway, my laptop, my massive water bottle, odds and ends like my pencil case and chargers — and there's still room for more."
Since commutes can often see a lot of dirt and grime (whether just from public transit or the weather), it's especially convenient that this tote is machine washable, too. Not only is it great for the office thanks to its roomy interior, durable exterior, and accessible key ring, but it’s also great for everyday errands and short weekend trips alike. While the price may be high for some, you can get a lot of use out of this lightweight, versatile bag that's bound to last you through all your errands and adventures.
If you're someone who loves to strictly organize all your essentials into various pockets, though, you may need something different, since this tote isn't designed with exterior or interior compartments. However, The Wristlet can easily attach to the key ring on the tote and serve as a pocket to keep your smaller items separate.
Price at time of publish: $179
Dimensions: 13.6 x 12.8 x 6.7 inches | Material: Thread made fro ocean-bound marine plastic | Colors: Black Portobello, ivory rugby stripe, black and canvas gingham, black and white stripe, and more | Storage: Key ring | Laptop size: 13 inches
Best Backpack: Dagne Dover Dakota Neoprene Backpack
Who It’s Good For
Made from durable neoprene (which is also waterproof), this stylish yet functional backpack is great for any organized commuter on the go.
Who It’s Not Good For
If you prefer a backpack that also converts into a tote, we recommend the Fastfairy backpack instead.
Dagne Dover bags are known for their durable neoprene and mesh material and impressive waterproof capabilities. The medium-sized Dover Backpack packs a lot of punch and is also a favorite of Yauger. "Between the waterproof material and spacious interior, the Dagne Dover backpack is the best work bag for commutes," she explains. "It has lots of organization options for storing keys, pens, your planner, etc., as well as a laptop sleeve, cushioned straps, and a few subtle color options." It's been Yauger's go-to for the last year and has yet to show any visible signs of wear. The medium size fits most 13-inch laptops, while the large size fits most laptops up to 16 inches.
Price at time of publish: $195
Dimensions: 5 x 11.5 x 17 inches (medium) | Material: Premium neoprene with Repreve lining (made from recycled plastic bottles) | Colors: Onyx, heather grey, dark moss, storm, dune, camel | Laptop size: 13 to 16 inches
Related: The 12 Best Work Shoes for Women of 2023, Starting at $19
Best Leather: Cuyana Classic Easy Tote
Who It’s Good For
This genuine leather tote bag features two different strap lengths and is Leather Working Group certified.
Who It’s Not Good For
If you're on the hunt for a leather work bag but want something a bit more affordable, keep scrolling.
Cuyana has a long list of celebrity fans from Meghan Markle to Jessica Alba, and it’s easy to see why. The brand launched the Easy Tote last year, describing it as a bag that’s “designed to go everywhere.” Its Italian leather construction (which is Leather Working Group certified, a.k.a. it's tanned responsibly) is lightweight and unstructured, but the bag is still designed with plenty of function.
Case in point: The double handles with different lengths allow you to switch from shoulder to handheld easily; a hanging interior wall pocket can act as a catch-all for all your small necessities, phone, and wallet; the roomy interior can hold all your daily essentials, including your laptop, water bottle, books, makeup bag, chargers, and more. It’s available in two sizes (classic or tall), seven colors, and there’s even a personalization option. If you’re especially organized, you can separately purchase a matching Airpod case, laptop sleeve, or inner pouch insert.
Price at time of publish: $268
Dimensions: 12.3 x 21.6 x 5.1 inches | Material: Italian leather, microsuede interior | Colors: Black, caramel, cappuccino, stone, dark olive, dark coral, sage, biscuit | Storage: Interior wall pocket | Laptop size: 13 to 16 inches
Best Vegan Leather: Freja New York Paloma Tote
Who It's Good For
Workers who want a chic leather tote but without the real leather component will love this high-quality bag by Freja.
Who It's Not Good For
It's the priciest option on this list, so it won't be the right pick for anyone shopping on a budget.
Freja NYC's Paloma Tote is a beautifully designed option made from premium vegan leather and vegan microsuede. In fact, you'll be surprised it's vegan at all — it looks, feels, and smells like genuine leather.
Reals touts this tote as her main office work bag, due to the ample compartment and pocket storage space and professional-looking design. "I can pack everything I need for the day in this, which usually includes my laptop, several notebooks, SPF makeup for touch-ups, sunglasses, wallet, phone, various charges, a water bottle, and my wireless headphones — that's just counting the major items," she says. "I do appreciate how premium it looks and feels. The price may be relatively higher than other totes I use for work, but you do indeed get what you pay for."
Price at time of publish: $358
Dimensions: 3 (base) x 10 x 5 inches | Material: Vegan ultrafiber leather with vegan microsuede lining | Colors: Latte, Cappuccino, Taupe, Pecan, Black | Storage: 3 main compartments, 5 interior pockets (one zipped pocket), water bottle access | Laptop size: 13 inches
Best Lightweight: MZ Wallace Medium Metro Tote
Who It's Good For
This easy, breezy lightweight tote doesn't add any stress to your commute — and makes it easy to organize your belongings, thanks to the 11 pockets, pass-through sleeve, and ring to attach your keys.
Who It's Not Good For
While this lightweight tote is surprisingly durable, it may not fare as well over time compared to some more durable weatherproof materials, in case you live in a place with extreme weather.
Despite being super lightweight, this MZ Wallace tote doesn't sacrifice durability or quality. In fact, it's functionality at its finest. Featuring a pass-through trolley sleeve that doubles as an exterior pocket when not in use, as well as four other exterior pockets, six interior pockets, a detachable pouch and a key ring, you won't lack places to put your office essentials.
Perhaps the "it" work bag of the New York City subway, we especially love this one for its barely-there feel. Some other bags feel a bit clunky and are heavy before you even add anything to them — which doesn't fare well for any type of commute; impressively, this only weighs 1.6 lbs. And thanks to the removable strap, you can choose to tote it around as either a crossbody or should bag.
This MZ Wallace classic comes in an array of colors but is inclusive of bold hues and standout prints (we love the plaid and jute) in addition to classic neutrals. "Thankfully amongst the sea of homogeneous black and navy work totes, we are now seeing a color wheel explosion," Conroy tells PEOPLE. "If you travel the gradient scale of color and texture, you’ll see work bags available in hues like burnt saffron yellow, caramel embossed croc, or intense pomegranate."
Price at time of publish: $275
Dimensions: 11.6 × 9.4 × 12.7 inches | Material: Rec Oxford, natural Italian leather lining | Colors: Dahlia, Black, Grass, Magnet, Dawn, Caramel, Pearl Metallic, Summer Palm, Buff, Small Jute, Plaid, Acid Yellow, Cherry, Denim, Oyster Metallic | Storage: 5 exterior pockets, 6 interior pockets, 1 detachable pouch, key ring | Laptop size: 13 inches
How to Pick the Right Work Bag
Durability
“Another important consideration is material and durability,” says celebrity stylist Chelsea Volpe. “A cloth bag won't survive a morning coffee spill or torrential downpour en route to the office. Consider materials like leather, which is luxe, durable and looks elevated for an important meeting with your boss. Another great material is polyester, which you can often throw in the wash or hand clean with a basic soft cloth. Polyester and other synthetic materials are also less expensive than the more upscale leather bag for the budget conscious buyer." Additionally, a waxed or water-resistant bag (like the Quince Revive Nylon Large Tote) is a great durable option for your everyday commute.
Functionality
"Look for a bag with a high drool factor that can fit your everyday essentials and accommodate your daily commuting needs," says Conroy. "Pick a structured silhouette with a flat base. Both will offer stability, so your work bag doesn’t tip over and spill its contents — or worse, damage your laptop. Make a beeline for bags with protective feet, divided compartments, and zip pouches for securing your small essentials."
Additionally, think of features you’ll need specifically on your commute and at the office. Are you someone who takes your water bottle everywhere? Then you should look for a work bag that includes easy access to your water bottle, like the Freja New York Paloma Tote or the Quince Revive Nylon Large Tote, just to name a few.
Size and Shape
Volpe explains that size is an important factor, as well. “A work bag that is too large will be difficult to schlep on your morning commute, however something too compact won't fit for example your laptop,” she says. “A medium-size, well-compartmentalized bag with a laptop sleeve is always a win.” Some medium-size bags with plenty of compartments and a laptop sleeve include the Béis The Work Tote and the Calpak Haven Laptop Bag.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which work bag is the best?
It mostly depends on what your needs are, but if you are wanting a timeless style that's also great for travel, ewe recommend the Béis The Work Tote because of its versatility, functionality, sleek look, and reasonable price point. The Lululemon Side-Cinch Shopper Bag is a great everyday option as it boasts a casual feel and can be worn from the gym to the office.
Are expensive work bags worth it?
Typically, bags that are more expensive are made with higher quality materials, but not always. Sometimes you’re paying for the extra storage and functional bells and whistles, or you could just be paying for the brand name.
"Delivering equal measures of fashion and function, expensive work bags are often worth the indulgence: Better construction, higher end materials and thicker straps that can withstand all of the heavy goodies you stash in your bag," explains Conroy. "But sometimes expensive 'it bags' of the season miss the mark on performance. So, shop with care. Like dating, don’t fall in love with a sexy counterfeit. Make sure your roomy carryall doesn’t just look good, it meets your wish list. The bag of your dreams might cost you much less than you think."
There are plenty of other great work bags on the list that are much more affordable and still offer plenty of functionality and durability as well. "Budget-friendly work bags don’t have to be hideous," says Conroy. "Dabble with brands like Béis or Denmark’s very own Rains to fully complete the affordable artisan experience."
Do work bags need to be washable?
It’s not essential for work bags to be easily washable, although that’s one perk for our machine-washable pick: Rothy’s The Lightweight Tote. If it’s not machine-washable, though, make sure the bag is still easy to spot clean and is durable enough to resist the inevitable wear and tear that comes with toting around a large, heavy bag.
Take Our Word For It
Erika Reals is PEOPLE's senior commerce editor who writes and edits everything from the best work shoes to the best places to buy dresses. Her previous work as a fashion editor can be found on Byrdie and Brides. For this roundup, she spent hours researching the latest and greatest work bags on the market based on factors like price, styling, capacity, and durability, as well as tested several herself. She also asked other PEOPLE editors and writers about their favorite work bags, as well as interviewed celebrity stylists Chelsea Volpe and Cindy Conroy for their shopping expertise and recommendations as a busy women on the go.
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