18 Best Messenger Bags to Hold Everything You Need

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 paper in there for years.

Consider this the Ferrari of messenger bags. It's sleek, it's sexy, it's cool. With a removable crossbody strap and buckle closure, we love how this bag has two main compartments (one that's zippered and one that's not), and were very impressed with how well the interior design protected all of our belongings—through rain, shine, spilled drinks—you name it.

For casual 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.

Without frills (but with a lot of really great pockets), this messenger bag has everything you need: storage, comfort, and durability. The best part? We noticed that you can pack this bag to the brim and still have it feel lightweight and easy to carry.

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

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

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 as easy as can be. And speaking of commute, our staff at Esquire especially appreciates how easily accessible the laptop compartment is, so you're able to jump right into work anytime, anywhere.

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.

A solid monochrome 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.

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

For traveling and commuting, this messenger bag has enough space for everything you'll need—and then some. We love how timeless and elegant this messenger bag looks with just about any fit, and especially appreciated the thought-out design that allowed us to carry it multiple different ways.

Distressed leather and a smooth face are the cornerstones of vintage luxury. Within, it has interior pockets, pen and card holders, and a zipper.

For a timeless, elegant bag that's not too expensive, faux leather is the way to go. This one has a pebbled leather look on the outside and a streamlined interior for your laptop and more.

Swedish brand 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 sleeve inside.

For a truly luxe messenger bag, this suede option is designed to last you years—whether you're taking it to the office or on your travels. For those frequent fliers, our reviewers noted how easily this option was to tote around even the busiest airport (yes, we're looking at you LAX), and thought the dimensions were perfect for stowing it away under your seat.

For a modern messenger bag that still gets the job done, Tom Ford put a layered twist on the style. The smaller silhouette with a front pocket has an adjustable strap and zip lining. It's spacious yet compact, making it perfect for when you don't need to carry an entire full-sized bag around.

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 chic spin on a classic design.

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 vibe that just begs to be paired with a cool pair of sneakers.