Business

14 Best Messenger Bags For Men 2024

September 21, 2024

The best messenger bags for men are made from durable, sleek materials without skimping on space; they have comfy shoulder straps and tons of organizational pockets so you can easily carry your work items, laptop and everyday essentials. Our top pick overall is the Chrome Citizen Messenger Satchel Bag, which has a travel-friendly design with a soft strap you can sling across your body whether you’re riding a bike or the subway. Other bags, like the Pacsafe Metrosafe LS250 Anti-Theft Shoulder Bag, feature lockable zips and hidden compartments to keep your belongings extra safe and secure.

The best messenger bags for men are made from durable, sleek materials without skimping on space.

ILLUSTRATION: FORBES / PHOTO: RETAILERS

We researched dozens of bags and evaluated each on style, material and functionality. Below, our final list highlights the ten that stood out the most across different use case scenarios, as well as seven more recommendations from leading stylists across the country. Read on to find the best messenger bags for men.

Amazon

Chrome Citizen Messenger Satchel Bag

I’m a deputy editor covering women’s and men’s fashion, accessories and athletic apparel. My writing has appeared in T: The New York Times Style Magazine, Vogue and The Wall Street Journal. Prior to joining Forbes, I wrote two books, including The New Beauty: A Modern Look at Beauty, Culture, and Fashion. I’ve studied fashion styling and hold certificates in jewelry essentials from the Gemological Institute of America and design history from Sotheby’s Institute of Art. A native New Englander, I grew up in Rhode Island and was—and remain—a sneaker obsessive with far too many pairs of white sneakers.

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I’m a freelance writer specializing in travel, tech, and the outdoors, with work appearing in the Wall Street Journal, New York Times, National Geographic, WIRED, Ars Technica, and The Daily Beast, among others. After receiving an undergrad in Marketing and a Master’s in Social Psychology, I worked in branding and then community development, overseeing food equity and justice initiatives across New York City. I solo bike toured Cuba and wrote the guidebook, Cuba by Bike. I started a small travel company (EscapingNY) and still lead tours in Cuba, Mexico, and Jordan. When I’m not hiking, biking, rafting, camping, or scuba diving, I’m usually doing puzzles and playing board games. You can find me on Twitter at @escapingnewyork and Instagram @escapingny.

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Weight: 2.8 pounds | Capacity: 24 liters | Materials: Nylon | Closure: Buckle | Colors: 3 total, including Black and Castlerock Twill

What’s notable: Chrome Industries is known for its durable, functional and travel-ready messenger bags—this style is no exception.
What could be better: This bag is not as sleek and polished as some leather options on our list.

Simple, durable, and undeniably elegant, Chrome’s Citizen is a bestseller from the brand known for messenger bags. Their bags are designed for bike messengers traversing the rough, rugged (and sometimes, wet) streets of the world’s biggest cities so you know they’re tough. Made from military-grade nylon—you know it’ll stand up to the elements—and with an easy-release buckle closure, it’s a travel-ready messenger bag that always looks great and has multiple compartments to organize your things, including a main pocket with separate wet and dry compartments and space for a 15-inch laptop. You might not want to head into a boardroom with it, though—the tough exterior doesn’t really work in high-end business settings.

What the reviews say: Reviewers rave about this bag’s high-quality construction, durability and spacious capacity: It’s “really well made and large enough to hold a computer and gym clothes,” one writes. Others note that its lack of a top handle could potentially cause strain on the shoulders.

Timbuk2

Timbuk2 Classic Messenger Bag

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Weight: 2 pounds | Capacity: 11 liters | Materials: Recycled polyester | Closure: Buckle | Colors: 9 total, including Jet Black and Fire Red

What’s notable: It’s constructed from recycled pre- and post-consumer materials and has plenty of interior pockets to keep you organized on the go.
What could be better: The material could be thicker to protect expensive tech when traveling.

For an entry level messenger, you can’t beat Timbuk2’s. It’s made from an incredibly durable tech canvas derived from eco-friendly recycled polyester—so you can feel good about your buy—plus a water-resistant exterior to keep your laptop, books and whatever else you have in there dry. The interior capacity is only medium sized, however; we wouldn’t recommend buying if you need to haul around a lot of stuff.

What the reviews say: Many praise the bag’s spacious “but not too bulky” design, especially given its “many intuitive pockets.” Some report that the shoulder strap easily loosens and tangles due to its thinner material.

Shinola Detroit

Shinola Computer Brief

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Weight: 3.2 pounds | Capacity: 5.5 liters | Materials: Leather | Closure: Zip | Colors: Black and Medium Brown

What’s notable: This luxurious leather bag is sophisticated for the office and comes with a removable, adjustable strap for versatility.
What could be better: It’s not as spacious as some other options, so it’s not best for travel (or a change of clothes).

If you’re ready to take the dive into a more sophisticated style—and the price that comes with it—Shinola’s messenger bag is made with luxurious leather infused with oils for a rich patina that only gets better with wear. Plus, you can carry it crossbody or as a briefcase with the removable, adjustable strap. Inside, there’s three open interior pockets and a larger interior zip compartment that can hold a 13-inch laptop. While it doesn’t have room for your gym clothes, it’s an excellent choice for something more high-end.

What the reviews say: Reviewers love the sleek details, describing it as “classy and rugged.” Others love its versatility: It “fits perfectly with both my formal and casual looks,” writes one commenter. Just beware: The “leather shows scratches or marks easily,” so you should handle it with care.

Leatherology

Leatherology Laptop Messenger Bag

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Materials: Leather | Closure: Front flap | Colors: 3 total, including Black Onyx and brown

What’s notable: The full-grain leather is soft and supple, and you can add a monogram for a personalized touch.
What could be better: The shoulder strap is slightly shorter, so it may sit higher on taller individuals.

Looking for great style, but not willing to take out a loan? Leatherology’s messenger bag is made from full-grain leather and has more than enough room to carry everything you need—including a main compartment with four interior pockets, three pen loops and an interior computer sleeve. Also nice: You can monogram the exterior. If you’re a big guy, however, you may want to think twice: The shoulder strap is slightly shorter so it sits higher on your body.

What the reviews say: The bag is “smooth, sharp [yet] not too big,” earning it plenty of positive reviews. Many enjoy the “great craftmanship” of the leather, as well as the “crisp embossing.” Some wish the shoulder strap was longer so that it sat lower on the waist.

Bellroy

Bellory Via Work Bag

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Weight: 2 pounds | Capacity: 14 liters | Materials: Recycled fabric | Closure: Zip | Colors: 3 total, including black and navy

What’s notable: The padded laptop sleeve can fit devices up to 16 inches, and there are plenty of smaller pockets for chargers, pens and other work essentials.
What could be better: There are limited color options.

If you take your work on the go, you need a messenger bag that keeps up. This no-effort, ultra-sleek bag from Bellroy has a padded laptop sleeve for machines up to 16 inches, as well as a separate main compartment, internal mesh zip pocket and all sorts of slots. Plus, it’s easy on the eyes with a smooth, leather-free construction. It only comes in neutral colors, though. If you want something with a little more pop, look elsewhere.

What the reviews say: It “holds more than you think,” says one reviewer. “It’s slim when you don’t need to carry a lot and just expands when you do.” Comments are divided on the shoulder strap: Some appreciate its super soft material, while others find it too thin.

Pacsafe

Pacsafe Metrosafe LS250 Anti-Theft Shoulder Bag

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Weight: 1.3 pounds | Capacity: 12 liters | Materials: Nylon, recycled polyester | Closure: Zip | Colors: Ocean, black

What’s notable: The lockable zips and RFID-blocking pockets make this an ideal choice for frequent travelers.
What could be better: The appearance resembles a knapsack rather than a traditional messenger bag.

Travel worry-free with this impenetrable messenger bag that works as your personal Fort Knox. Made entirely from recycled materials and containing a laptop sleeve with plenty of pockets, Pacsafe’s messenger stands out for its security features, including lockable zips, RFID-blocking pockets and a durable anchor strap that refuses to rip. It does have more of a knapsack-like body, however, so if you want a sleeker messenger bag, this might not be it.

What the reviews say: Despite its limited color options, travelers like how this bag is “roomy enough to hold a wallet, reading glasses, e-reader” and more, plus has an “easily accessible hidden pocket for hotel room keys.” A few artists have noted that the internal pockets are the ideal size for sketchbooks and A4-sized documents.

Chrome

Chrome Doubletrack Handlebar Bag

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Weight: 0.8 pounds | Capacity: 5 liters | Materials: Nylon, tarp, polyester | Closure: Buckle | Colors: Black, Olive Branch

What’s notable: This bag mounts to a bike’s handlebar and can also be worn crossbody.
What could be better: It doesn’t have as many internal pockets for organizing small belongings.

If you’re moving through the city on a bike, the last thing you need is your stuff flying all over the place on a tight turn. Enter Chrome’s messenger bag that easily mounts to the handlebar so you can navigate like a pro. With five liters of capacity, it’ll hold the essentials (your wallet, phone, food, water) but not extra bulk.

What the reviews say: Buyers frequently remark on how “small and lightweight” yet spacious this bag is, in part thanks to its “solid construction.” Some say they’d prefer it to have internal pockets for more organization.

Amazon

Coolbell Convertible Backpack Messenger Bag

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Weight: 2.6 pounds | Materials: Oxford cloth, polyester, leather | Closure: Zip | Colors: 6 total, including blue and Canvas Black

What’s notable: This 3-in-1 option can be worn as a backpack, shoulder bag or messenger bag.
What could be better: The exterior could look more sophisticated, and there’s no external water bottle holder.

Not sure whether to get a backpack or a messenger bag? Why not both? This bag from Coolbell is lightweight with nice storage, but has not one but three carrying styles: as a backpack, shoulder bag or messenger bag. So no matter where you’re off to, you can adjust the look. It’s not constructed with the most high-end materials, though, so you may experience jiggling zips and the occasional abrasion.

What the reviews say: Many praise the “plethora of pockets” as well as its long-term durability: “I have been using this bag heavily for four years now, and it is just as beautiful and functional as the day it came in the mail,” writes one. A few report having issues with the zippers.

The North Face

The North Face Base Camp Voyager Sling

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Weight: 1.4 pounds | Capacity: 11 liters | Materials: Polyester | Closure: Zip | Colors: 4 total, including Smokey Brown and Summit Navy

What’s notable: The main internal compartment easily holds a change of clothes, gym sneakers and more. The padded tablet pocket is a nice touch, too.
What could be better: The strap only runs in one direction and is difficult to adjust.

If you’re a gym rat, you’ll need more room for your gear than your average messenger bag. The North Face’s Voyager has space for your shoes, shorts and blender bottle in an easy sling form. It’s made from recycled, durable, lightweight materials as well, so you know it won’t weigh you down on the go. It’s fairly large, so it’s really is for holding your gym clothes, though; expect a great carrying experience but not an ultra-compact one.

What the reviews say: Plenty of reviewers rely on this as their daily bag: It’s “very compact and full of felt lined pockets with sturdy zippers,” reports a customer. Others find that the stiff strap can cause neck strain and discomfort.

Other Top Picks To Consider

Choosing a messenger bag ultimately comes down to personal preference. If none of the options above speak to your specific needs or tastes, we also reached out to fashion stylists to ask for additional recommendations. Here’s what they have firsthand experience with and speak highly of.

Smythson

Smythson Lightweight Slim Briefcase In Panama

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New York City stylist Jordanna Sharp recommends the Smythson Lightweight Slim Briefcase for a luxurious pick worth the splurge. “I love the elegance of this; it feels timeless and practical. I often find that textured leather is more durable as it doesn’t show scratch marks as easily, making it a worthy investment for men.” It’s large enough to fit a 16-inch laptop, notebook, charger and more. Other thoughtful features include a removable, adjustable shoulder strap, trolley sleeve and interior pockets.

Amazon

Tumi Alpha Slim Deluxe Portfolio

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Grant Alexander, a Chicago-based stylist, recommends the Tumi Alpha Slim Deluxe Portfolio for its sleek look and interior organization. “Tumi’s Slim Portfolio from their Alpha collection is as functional as it is stylish and offers a slimmer profile that many clients have loved. It’s a great pick for someone looking for a sophisticated, nicer bag,” says Alexander. It has an impressive number of pockets (11, to be exact), plus a padded tablet sleeve to protect your tech. The zippered top keeps everything from falling out in transit.

Amazon

Filson Rugged Twill Original Briefcase

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If you tend to be hard on your bags, look for materials that hold up well to frequent wear. “Filson’s Rugged Twill Briefcase is an awesome choice for guys who need (or prefer) something they can beat up. The details look and feel smart, and the twill fabric should last for years. It’s a great dressed-up casual bag,” says Alexander. What’s more, the industrial-strength twill is coated to offer protection from the weather.

Amazon

Oak Leathers Messenger Bag

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For a bag that looks more expensive than it actually is, you can’t go wrong with the Oak Leathers Messenger Bag. “This is my best value pick, made from full-grain leather. Not only is it affordable, but it has a vintage look and it’s easy to incorporate into daily use,” says Kyle Albrecht, founder and lead stylist at Social Garb. There are five color options, and the interior has several pockets.

Amazon

Rains Messenger Bag

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The Rains Messenger Bag is a great choice if you need to carry a laptop for work or school (it can fit 16-inch devices) but still want something that looks sleek and modern. “The Rains bag is another great value option with smart design details. It has a slim profile that doesn’t look too bulky even when filled,” says Albrecht. The waterproof PU fabric ensures your belongings stay dry even during inclement weather.

Why Trust Forbes Vetted

As writers and researchers, the Forbes Vetted team has tested and published many men’s fashion articles on everything from the best wallets to the most comfortable dress shoes to the best suits.

This story was co-written by Forbes Vetted deputy editor Kari Molvar, who’s covered all-things men’s and women’s fashion for over 20 years, and Cassandra Brooklyn, a longtime contributor who specializes across different lifestyle categories.
We consulted with four fashion experts for messenger bag styling tips and personal recommendations: New York City-based stylist Jordanna Sharp, stylist and Social Garb-founder Kyle Albrecht, Chicago-based stylist Grant Alexander and George Brescia, a style expert and author of Change Your Clothes, Change Your Life.
We regularly review this story to ensure the accuracy of prices, product details and list placements. In our September 2024 update, editorial assistant Whitney Bruno incorporated firsthand feedback from reviewers.

How We Chose The Best Messenger Bags For Men

To determine which messenger bags were the best investments, we looked at dozens of customer reviews, checked out prices and considered how each model would comfortably store and organize one’s belongings.

Durability was a top priority; you want to hold onto a messenger bag for a few years, so we prioritized high-quality materials, such as leather and waterproof PVC polyester, and also checked for resilient hardware, including buckles and adjustable straps.
Price was another consideration; you shouldn’t have to overspend to find a sophisticated, stylish messenger bag. Instead, we located a range of options that work with all budgets (small or large), from the affordable Timbuk2 Classic Messenger to the higher-end Shinola Computer Brief.
We made sure all of the bags were available from trusted retailers with good return policies, so you can try out these messenger bags risk-free in order to make the best purchase for your needs.
Recommendations from top styling experts were incorporated in our final list, such as the Smythson Lightweight Slim Briefcase In Panama and the Filson Rugged Twill Original Briefcase.

What To Consider When Buying A Men’s Messenger Bag

There are several factors to consider when shopping for the best men’s messenger bags. Here’s what to look for.

What You’ll Put In It

Not all messenger bags are created equally so before investing in one just because it looks cool, spend some time thinking about what you’ll actually carry. Will you be stashing lots of small items like headphones, caribeners or keys that require lots of pockets? Do you need at least one or some of those pockets to be located on the outside of the bag for easy access? Is a button pocket sufficient or would small keys or coins be more secure in a zipped pocket?

Even if there’s space to throw your laptop into the main compartment, it may be easier to keep your bag organized (and find what you need) if there’s a separate laptop sleeve. Will you carry this bag in all weather? If so, you may want to consider a water-resistant or waterproof bag.

How You’ll Use It

Some of the best men’s messenger bags are multipurpose, so they’ll work well for a quick meeting at the coffee shop, a full-day at the office or even a post-work gym run. However, other men’s messenger bags are better suited for one particular purpose. For instance, while our top overall pick, the Chrome Citizen Messenger Bag, is great for a variety of needs, the brand specializes in hardcord bags for bike messengers. As such, the style and aesthetic of this bag isn’t especially well-suited to the boardroom. Similarly, while the Pacsafe Metrosafe Anti-Theft Bag has a comfortable sling that makes it a nice travel bag, the strap wasn’t designed for biking so it wouldn’t fit comfortably around your torso while riding.

How You’ll Wear It

You might really love one particular way of wearing your messenger bag—say, slung over your shoulder, hung down by your hip or over your upper back like a backpack. However, if you’re the type of person who likes to switch things up, you may appreciate a messenger bag that can be worn, held or carried multiple ways. Keep in mind that even if you usually sling a bag over your shoulder, it may be convenient to have an extended strap to wear it over your hip and also have a carrying handle for travel. A supportive chest strap may also make the bag more comfortable if you’ll be wearing it over long periods.

Your Body Type

If you have especially broad shoulders and want to sling your messenger bag across your body, you’re going to want to make sure the strap is long enough that you can do so comfortably without struggling to get your head and arm through. Similarly, if the messenger bag has a front strap that you’d like to attach for support, you’ll want to make sure that it’s wide enough for your chest since some run on the shorter side.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What Is The Correct Way To Wear A Messenger Bag?

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What Is The Correct Way To Wear A Messenger Bag?

Well, that depends on how you’re going to use it. For bikers, many proper bike messenger bags come with bike-friendly features like reflective and handlebar straps so that the bag appears more visible to those on the street around you; you can rest it high on your back to ease strain or attach it to the front of your bike accordingly.

For most regular messenger bags, you can make use of their stabilizing and chest-support straps by slinging the bag over your shoulder. This helps distribute the weight if you tend to carry a heavy bag or if you suffer from neck or back pain. Others also feature a top handle you can carry it with when your load is a little lighter.

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