The 18 Best Messenger Bags to Keep Everything You Need in One Place

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If you're not a college student shoving syllabi away and discarding old vape cartridges on the go, and if you're also not a Brooklyn-based barista who cuffs his jeans and cuts his own mullet, then it's time for you to get rid of your too-worn tote bag and upgrade to a messenger bag.

That's right, folks; we're living in a world where pockets are no longer enough, backpacks are rarely the sleekest option, and there's simply no better way to carry documents, a laptop, pens, cards, and more than a messenger bag. Personally, I love them! What isn't to love?

Messenger bags are the most functional of bags, yet they're rarely ugly, and in fact are often quite expensive-looking and chic. They have pockets galore (and as someone who still uses a canvas tote bag, one giant gaping hole into which I throw everything I come across, that's a major bonus) and a strap that can be worn across the chest in a very cool and urban way, or on the shoulder in a very casual and nonchalant way.

You can get a messenger bag to hold all of your belongings easily, and you can just as easily get one that actually suits your aesthetic too. Whether for work or play, these are 18 messengers that'll shoulder the weight of the world for you—at least, a bit.

Essential Wax Satchel

With burnished hardware to give it a rugged feel, this waxed cotton messenger bag is everything a messenger should be: sturdy, functional, roomy, and, of course, a little bit used-looking, as if you've been an academic shoving papers in there for years.

Messenger Bag

This is the Ferrari of messenger bags. It's sleek, it's hot, it's cool. Perfect for business, too, with a removable crossbody strap and buckle closure.

Ripstop Messenger Bag

For daily use, a messenger bag that can face the chaotic elements of daily life and handle everything you throw at it (or, in it, really) is necessary. Carhartt's is tough enough for a construction site or the office, with a laptop sleeve and durable fabric.

Messenger Bag

Without frills (but with a lot of really great pockets), this messenger bag has everything you need: storage, comfort, and durability.

Messenger Bag

Evoking that old-school, professor-y feel, this bag is the one you put your essentials in, alongside a few paperbacks you tell yourself you'll get around to reading eventually.

Durable Leather Messenger Bag

This bag has a timeless, classic appeal that never goes out of style. With durable leather, plenty of pockets, and a padded laptop compartment, it's got all the modern features while keeping a vintage look.

The ReNew Transit Messenger

Everlane's durable messenger is as simple as it is functional. This no-hassle design is roomy enough to store everything you need and then some, and with a padded shoulder strap, it'll make your commute easy as can be.

Grained Leather Military Messenger Bag

Simple yet luxurious, Loewe's minimalist leather messenger bag is the epitome of understated elegance. Whether you're bringing this to the office or on a trip, you're in good hands.

Gotham Messenger Bag 27

An solid, monocrhome bag never goes out of style, and is perfect for any occasion, from business to casual. With a folding flap, pen slots, hidden pockets, and an adjustable strap, this messenger is ready to be your personal assistant.

The Everywhere Bag

Bring this on vacation or a business trip, to the office or to your errands. It's suitable for all occasions, with a laptop pocket, water-resistant fabric, interior and exterior pockets, and a sleeve to attach to the handle of your suitcase.

Dryden Ballistic Nylon Briefcase

For traveling and commuting, this messenger bag has enough space for everything you'll need—and then some.

Logan Leather Messenger Bag

Distressed leather and a smooth face make this bag scream luxury. Within, it has interior pockets, pen and card holders, and a zipper.

Waymon House Check PU Document Bag

For a timeless, elegant bag, faux leather is the way to go. You'll look cool and smart carrying this around.

Sportswear Essentials Messenger Bag

When you want a messenger bag that doesn't take itself too seriously, turn to this one. It's great for everyday use, and has a casual, street style vibe just begging to be paired with sneakers and baggy pants.

Black Nylon Messenger Bag

Being Swedish, Acne Studios knows a thing or two about functional and sleek design. This nylon bag has carrying handles as well as a removable strap, alongside pockets, a zip closure, and a laptop pocket inside.

Vagabond Suede Messenger Bag

For a truly luxe messenger bag, opt for suede. This one is designed to last you years, whether you're taking it to the office or on your travels.

Full-Grain Leather Messenger Bag

For a modern messenger bag that still gets the job done, Tom Ford's vertical twist on the style has an adjustable strap and zip lining. Spacious yet compact, this is perfect for when you don't need to carry an entire full-sized bag around.

Klassik Medium Messenger Bag

Just because messenger bags are for people who have their shit together doesn't mean they can't still look cool and fun. Splattered with the MCM logo all over, this best-selling bag is a cool spin on a classic design.

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