More practical than a tote bag, and more accessible than a backpack, the timeless messenger bag continues to be our choice for our daily carry.We know it can be overwhelming to have so many different bags for different purposes, and we also know we’re not the only ones with backpacks, briefcases, purses, tote bags, and shopping bags starting to feel like they are taking over our closets. While each of these products has a time and a place, the messenger bag combines the best of many.

　　These over-the-shoulder bags are synonymous with commuting and are more polished than a backpack, provide easy access to their interior, are perfect for holding laptops and notebooks, cameras, or other small accessories, and are also great for travel, whether that be just to the coffee shop or overseas.

　　While many messenger bags may seem the same, some bags have features that will make them more suited to your needs or lifestyle like waterproofing, customizable straps, or specific organizational features. Our expert gear testers have done all the legwork for you, and have identified 10 of the best messenger bags on the market today to thoroughly test for this guide.

　　We reviewed these bags for over a month, from the small town of Bishop, California to commutes in the big city of Los Angeles. We took each of them out on bike rides for a total of 4 miles minimum, loaded them up and walked with them a mile to the local coffee shop, and scrutinized the strengths and weaknesses of their organizational features to help you decide which bag might best suit your needs.

　　Read on to learn more, explore our messenger bag Buyer’s Guide, as well as reference our handy Comparison Chart and FAQ sections for all the info you need to make the best choice to make your next commute a breeze.

　　The Best Messenger Bags of 2024 Best Overall Messenger Bag: Timbuk2 Classic Messenger Bag Best Budget Messenger Bag: Carhartt Messenger Bag Best Messenger Bag for Bike Commuting: Mission Workshop Monty Best Messenger Bag with Water Protection: Osprey Metron 18 Messenger Best Briefcase-style Messenger Bag: Timbuk2 Closer Laptop Briefcase Best Messenger Bag for Photographers: Peak Design Everyday Messenger Best Overall Messenger Bag Timbuk2 Classic Messenger Bag Specs Volume 16 L (medium size) Material Eco Cordura, 70D waterproof TPU liner Waterproofing Yes Weight 2 lbs., 3.2 oz. (medium size) Dimensions 13.4” x 7.28” x 12.8”

　　Pros Comfortable and easily-adjustable shoulder strap Many organizational features Water-resistant Affordable Cons Can get front heavy Internal water bottle holders can take up a lot of interior space Miya Tsudome When you think of a messenger bag, something like the Timbuk2 Classic ($130) is probably what comes to mind. It is, indeed, “classic” and has definite “bike-messenger” vibes. This updated version also comes in a lot of fun colorways so you can find one that suits your style. There are so many things we love about this bag — it’s affordable, weather-resistant, and simple but with many thoughtful organizational features hidden under the flap making it a cut above the rest. 

　　Designed to be carried in a traditional messenger bag style, this crossbody bag sits diagonally across your back and has a comfortable shoulder strap with some padding and easy adjustability via a smooth buckle. The strap can also be switched from left to right shoulder, a feature its previous version did not have and is much welcomed in this updated version.  

　　The Classic has a weather-resistant exterior as well as a waterproof liner to help shed moisture (check out the Mission Workshop Khyte if you want an even more water-resistant bag). Underneath the front flap, there is a unique panel of pockets to help organize your small items.

　　The interior of the bag hosts a main compartment, plus a hidden pocket for valuables and even more small pouches to keep things neat and tidy. Two water bottle pockets are featured on either side of the interior, and finally, a dedicated laptop sleeve holds up to a 16” laptop at the back of the bag. This bag comes in four sizes which further allows you to customize what will best suit your needs. 

　　Since so many organizational pockets are towards the front of the bag, we found it can get awkwardly front-heavy, especially if you don’t have a laptop in the back to balance things out. And if you actually do put two water bottles in the interior, there quickly becomes a small amount of space left for things like Tupperware, headphones, layers, etc.

　　Our testers found themselves wishing there was a small water bottle holder on the outside of the bag instead, like on the Topo Designs Mountain Cross Bag, so there would be more room in the main compartment for other things. But we can’t deny that this keeps things more streamlined, which is a nice feeling. 

　　This 16-liter Timbuk2 Classic bag has a lot going on, which makes it a great choice for those who like to keep things organized with dedicated pockets and appreciate a smaller size that does not weigh them down on their bike commute.

　　$129 at AmazonCheck Price at TimBuk2 Best Budget Messenger Bag Carhartt Messenger Bag Specs Volume N/A Material 500-denier Cordura ripstop nylon with Rain Defender durable water repellant Waterproofing Yes Weight N/A Dimensions 18.25” x 12.5” x 7”

　　Pros Affordable Just enough organizational features Padded laptop compartment Durable materials Cons Lacks structure Lacks additional padding Utilitarian style Miya Tsudome If youre hesitant to drop over $100 on a messenger bag, but don’t want to sacrifice the perks that come with a more expensive bag, enter the Carhartt Messenger Bag ($75). This 500-denier nylon bag is simple in design but has enough features that make it well worth the price. Carhartt is known for its rugged, quality clothing and accessories, and this bag is no exception. 

　　Some messenger bags, like the Mission Workshop Khyte or the Mission Workshop Monty, have so many pockets and pouches it can be a little overwhelming. But this bag from Carhartt seems to have just the right amount of pockets to keep things simple but effective.

　　A zippered, padded back pocket fits up to a 15” laptop. The main compartment has some mesh zippered pockets on its backside and some pouch organizers with a hidden pocket in the front. And there are two stash pouches underneath the front flap of the bag for quick access to items like your phone or wallet. 

　　The bags sleek design makes it easy to carry while still offering ample storage capacity. However, it lacks any internal structure, which can make it feel more floppy when it’s not fully packed. Our reviewers found that even though there is a lightly padded laptop compartment, there is no extra padding anywhere else on the bag, which means you want to be careful when setting it down if you are carrying expensive electronics.

　　We wish there was a structured bottom with some padding; then, we would really love this bag. Despite this small setback, the Carhartt Messenger Bag is a great budget-friendly pick for someone who wants a decent messenger bag without having to splurge.

　　$60 at Amazon Best Messenger Bag for Bike Commuting Mission Workshop Monty Specs Volume 21 L Material 1000D nylon Waterproofing Yes Weight 2 lbs., 12 oz. Dimensions 16” x 10” x 5”

　　Pros Spacious capacity Comfortable padded shoulder strap Weatherproofing High quality materials Cons Pricey Large for the average daily driver Miya Tsudome Best described as a rugged, urban bike commuting bag, the Mission Workshop Monty ($220) is ready to go wherever you need to go, no matter the conditions. The quality of this bag is high, as evidenced by the burly 1000-denier Cordura shell and ripstop nylon with fully waterproof TPU backing for the interior.

　　The top can be used in a traditional flap-down fashion or affixed with Velcro for a rolled-up top configuration, which allows you to fill the bag to the brim. Generous padding on the strap, a large aluminum buckle for easy adjustment, and a spacious interior with nice organizational features make this a great pick for the urban bike commuter. 

　　Our testers were seriously impressed with the capacity of this bag, with a whole 21 liters of volume that provides ample room for a 15” laptop in the main compartment with plenty of space left over for books and accessories. There is a front zippered pocket with two smaller internal pockets for easy access to smaller items like a phone or wallet, and it hosts a waterproof zipper as well that is protected from the elements by the heavy-duty front flap. 

　　We loaded it up and biked four miles around town to test its comfort level and ergonomics, and found the padded shoulder strap to ease the burden of the load quite well. A cross-chest stabilizing strap also allows you to cinch the Mission Workshop Monty closer to your body, distributing the weight better through your torso. You can also affix the shoulder strap to the left or right side of your body, and the adjustment buckle on the front is one of the easiest to use we’ve tested.

　　We are serious when we say we love the buckle. It makes throwing this bag over your shoulder and adjusting it quickly on the go a breeze and feels premium in design. Because of this strap, and how comfortable this bag is to wear while riding, it’s the best bike messenger bag in our lineup. If you are looking to spend a bit less money, the Osprey Metron 18 Messenger is another contender for this title, though it has less volume.

　　Check Price at Mission Workshop Best Messenger Bag with Water Protection Osprey Metron 18 Messenger Specs Volume 18 L Material 500D nylon, DWR finish Waterproofing Yes Weight 2 lbs., 3.2 oz. Dimensions 7” x 18.9” x 11.8”

　　Pros Made to comfortably carry while riding Padded strap Comes with additional rain cover Cons Can’t customize strap to right or left shoulder Smaller size Miya Tsudome While you can use the Osprey Metron 18 Messenger ($120) as a regular bag, it is truly designed with the bike commuter in mind. Made to wear cross-body with the bag riding high on your back, it’s ergonomic for bike travel and won’t hang awkwardly to your side as some other bags might. It comes flush with bike-commute-specific features, such as an included rain cover, a loop to attach a light, and reflective prints and zipper pulls for enhanced visibility. 

　　This bag is on the smaller side, but that makes it easier to carry in our testers’ opinions. The wide, padded shoulder strap allows you to carry a load comfortably, and an included sternum strap helps keep the bag in place and more secure on your torso. 

　　Because it’s designed to be worn high on your back, Osprey, true to its outdoor roots, made sure to use its AirScape material on the back panel to enhance breathability. Inside, there is room for a 16” laptop and a couple of books/notebooks, and the front pocket has mesh organizer sleeves and padded drop-in pockets for smaller accessories. 

　　18 liters isn’t enough for other bulky items like extra clothing or cameras, so the Osprey Metron 18 Messenger is designed to carry just a few essentials. The shoulder strap cannot be customized to carry on either shoulder and thus favors right-handed folks, which is something to consider before purchasing. There is also a curious strap with a hook that hangs down and doesn’t seem to serve much of a purpose, which could be annoying to some.

　　Check Price at OspreyCheck Price at Backcountry Best Briefcase-Style Messenger Bag Timbuk2 Closer Laptop Briefcase Specs Volume 10 L Material 100% recycled nylon Waterproofing Yes Weight 2 lbs., 3.2 oz. Dimensions 13” x 15.4” x 3.1”

　　Pros Sleek design High quality, recycled materials Versatile Cons Laptop sleeve only fits up to 15” device Small capacity Miya Tsudome The Timbuk2 Closer Laptop Briefcase ($159) is a sleek and functional accessory for the modern professional. Boasting a minimalist design with clean lines and durable materials, this bag combines style with practicality so you can carry a more comfortable bag without having to resort to a stuffy briefcase. 

　　Timbuk2 takes the classic briefcase design and elevates it for the modern workplace with the Closer. Any good modern-day messenger bag needs protection for electronics, and this one has a padded sleeve that will fit up to a 15” laptop. The flap is also height adjustable, so your bag can accommodate taller items like portfolios or documents that can’t fit horizontally. Throw in some small organizer pockets, an exterior water bottle holder, a removable shoulder strap, and a comfortable, padded handle and you’ve got yourself a great bag. 

　　Our testers especially loved the slick silver buckles that have smooth clipping action and also bring a more upscale look to this bag. Additionally, the Closer is very versatile, as it can be carried as a briefcase, worn over the shoulder, and worn crossbody on your commute. Since we loved the Timbuk2 Classic as our overall favorite, we weren’t surprised that the Closer carries just as comfortably. Staying true to its bike messenger roots, Timbuk2 managed to make an office bag that can also ride with you. 

　　This bag is also one of the smaller ones we tested, with a total volume of only 10 liters, which makes it easy to carry the essentials and retain a sleek look. However, this means there isn’t much room for bulkier items you may need, like clothing. We were also disappointed that the laptop compartment can’t fit a 16” model. We were able to fit one into the main compartment without issue, but then we’d advise using a padded sleeve or case for extra protection. 

　　Overall, the Timbuk2 Closer Laptop Briefcase Bag offers a winning combination of style and functionality for the modern-day office goer. Whether youre heading to work or embarking on a business trip, this bag has you covered.

　　$159 at AmazonCheck Price at TimBuk2 Best Messenger Bag for Photographers Peak Design Everyday Messenger Specs Volume 13 L Material 400D outer, DWR finish, 900D waterproof bottom liner Waterproofing Yes Weight 2 lbs., 3.2 oz. Dimensions 14.2” x 15.5” x 7.5”

　　Pros Made for photographers Internal customizable dividers Stiff which makes it easy to get in and out of Cons Doesn’t come with a rain cover Can feel bulky for an everyday carry On the pricier side Miya Tsudome While many messenger bags can fit a camera, not all are designed specifically for that function. Enter the Peak Design Everyday Messenger ($230). This 13-liter bag is stiff and structured, with internal, removable dividers customizable for your camera, lenses, and other accessories. The shell is made with 100% recycled 400-denier fabric coated with DWR, and a 900-denier waterproof bottom liner. We would love to see a bag like this come with an included rain cover, however, to really protect your expensive camera equipment, and this is something to consider. 

　　While this bag is on the pricey side, it has a lot of features that make it worth the cost in our opinion. The closure system has four rungs with magnetized clips that can easily be operated one-handed. Inside the main compartment are padded Velcro dividers to keep your camera and lenses separated, organized, and protected. 

　　A front pocket allows you to store smaller items like SD card cases, hard drives, charging cables, notebooks, and whatever else you may need. A laptop sleeve fits a 13” laptop, and two zippered external pockets on either side of the bag allow you to stash your wallet, phone, or keys away from the main compartment for easy access. 

　　While the stiffness of the Peak Design Everyday Messenger is amazing for easy access to your camera equipment, especially if you’re running around changing lenses, it can make the bag slightly awkward to carry crossbody. It can feel bulky and isn’t the best for crossbody use, and carrying it around on crowded subways or through narrow spaces feels slightly cumbersome.

　　And while the closure system allows you to dial in the lid of the bag to accommodate taller items, if it is clipped to the highest rung, there is a lot of space on the sides where small items could potentially fall out, or water could get in during a rain storm.

　　Check Price at Amazon Best of the Rest Mission Workshop Khyte Specs Volume 24 L Material HT500 nylon outer, MultiCam Black Cordura, VX-21 Waterproofing Yes Weight 2 lbs., 9.9 oz. Dimensions 21” x 14” x 6”

　　Pros Two-layer waterproof construction Thoughtful organizational features Ability to add additional tech pouches/accessories Cons Expensive Can get heavy Must purchase better shoulder strap for increased comfort Miya Tsudome A premium messenger bag with serious waterproof capabilities, the Mission Workshop Khyte ($390) is designed to keep your gear dry without sacrificing its urban appeal. Best described as a rugged hauler made with protecting your tech in mind, if you’re willing to splurge you’ll walk away with something that could become your new everyday commuter bag. 

　　The Khyte is a large messenger, with 24 liters of space and features that are deliberate and well thought out. A dedicated waterproof sleeve for your laptop allows you to access it without having to dig into the main compartment and fits up to a 16” model. This bag keeps the main compartment as a simple, open space to fill with bulky items like a water bottle, jacket, camera, or whatever else you might be carrying.

　　The front flap has a pocket under a flap of fabric is lined with microfiber for your phone or glasses and is a feature Miya, our lead reviewer, especially appreciated as she has a bad habit of never carrying her glasses case with her anywhere. 

　　Underneath the front flap is a large organizational pocket for all your small items and accessories, as well as webbing attachments for additional tech pouches you can purchase to expand the capacity of this bag even more. There is also webbing on the side of the bag you could use to affix a water bottle holder or some other sort of pouch.

　　Having the ability to customize this bag is unique, but can quickly become more expensive. This could also cause you to load down an already large bag with more gear, making it heavier to carry. Our testers seemed to prefer smaller bags in the 15-18 liter range, like the Aer Commuter Brief 2 or Osprey Metron 18, solely because carrying a heavy bag over your shoulder for long periods of time can become pretty uncomfortable. The strap on the Khyte is pretty basic, and while you can purchase the Deluxe Messenger Strap from Mission Workshop for an extra $50, we would expect that this would already be included with such an expensive bag. 

　　With a two-layer waterproof construction, flaps and sleeves to keep moisture out, and detail-oriented organizational features, the Mission Workshop Khyte is great for the commuter who likes to carry a lot of stuff, and wants peace of mind when unexpected weather hits.

　　$390 at Mission Workshop Topo Designs Mountain Cross Bag Specs Volume 17 L Material 200D nylon upper, 1000D lower, Waterproofing No Weight 1 lb., 8 oz. Dimensions 15” x 11.5” x 4”

　　Pros Lots of organizational features Colorful Padded laptop sleeve Customizable straps Cons Small, slim profile Not made to carry bulky items Style might not be for everyone Miya Tsudome Some messenger bags look more fun than others, and that is definitely the case with the colorful Topo Designs Mountain Cross Bag ($130). This company is known for its brightly colored products, and if you want a little more unconventional style in your everyday carry, this might just be what you’re looking for. 

　　The first thing we noticed is that this bag is definitely slimmer and smaller than other messenger bags we tested, with a 17 L total capacity. It’s not made to be filled with bulky items, rather its incredible number of pockets enable you to stay organized but limit you to what kind of items you’re carrying. This bag gently nudges you into having a plan for what you’ll be putting inside of it rather than acting as a large catchall for whatever you throw in it as you are walking out the door like some of the other larger bags tested.

　　Luckily it can fit a 13-14” laptop and has a dedicated, padded compartment specifically for this purpose. Two water bottle holders on either side allow you to keep liquids out of the main compartment but can only comfortably accommodate smaller-sized bottles. 

　　You can carry this bag as a briefcase, on your shoulder, or crossbody. Two straps are included so that you can choose how you’d like the bag to sit — the crossbody strap is shorter and has a buckle, causing the bag to sit higher on your back like with the Osprey Metron 18, and the shoulder strap allows for a more casual carry, with the bag falling beside your hip like the Carhartt Messenger Bag. 

　　All in all, the Topo Designs Mountain Cross Bag, with its many straps, clips, daisy chains, pockets, compartments, and colors, might be too much or just enough, depending on your style preference. We think it’s a great bag for those who like to keep things super organized, and need a smaller everyday carry or travel bag.

　　$129 at evo$129 at Amazon Aer Commuter Brief 2 Specs Volume 13 L Material 840D nylon face, 1680D Cordura ballistic nylon side exteriors Waterproofing No Weight 2 lbs., 14.4 oz. Dimensions 16” x 11.5” x 5.5”

　　Pros Sleek and sophisticated look Can carry briefcase style or as a shoulder bag with removable strap Feels spacious for only 13-liters Cons Shoulder strap is not adjustable Laptop sleeve can’t fit a 16” laptop Miya Tsudome The Aer Commuter Brief 2 ($145) is a sleek and polished messenger bag that brings a sophisticated look from your commute to the office. As its name suggests, this bag can be carried in a briefcase-style, or as a shoulder bag with the included easily attachable shoulder strap. A structured frame allows it to stand upright as you pack it full of the essentials for work or travel. 

　　While some may go for the more quirky style of the Topo Designs Mountain Cross Bag, the Commuter Brief 2 has a more professional look with its matte finish, subtle logos, and a high-quality 840D nylon face and 1680D ballistic nylon side exterior materials. 

　　A padded laptop sleeve toward the back of the bag can fit up to a 15” laptop. We wish it would allow for an inch more, as many laptops these days are commonly 16” and our testers feel like this is an unfortunate oversight on Aer’s part. While this bag only has a 13-liter capacity, it feels much more spacious than that, with its large main compartment and a well-organized front pocket which packs in many different small pockets and pouches for keeping your small accessories in place and at hand.  

　　An external back pocket allows you to keep important items like your wallet or passport close to your body while traveling, and a luggage-handle pass-through strap is a fantastic feature for keeping your travel luggage together and thus more streamlined. 

　　The shoulder strap is not adjustable, so you can’t customize the fit of the bag across your body. This feature, as well as the bag not having the capacity for a 16” laptop, are some things to keep in mind. But regardless, we do believe the Aer Commuter Brief 2 to be a great commuter bag for the sophisticated office worker.

　　Check Price at AER KÜHL Eskape Messenger Specs Volume 14 L Material Waterproof, TPU-laminated nylon Waterproofing Yes Weight N/A Dimensions 17.5” x 6.5” x 11.5”

　　Pros Rugged High-quality Water-resistant Great padding for laptop protection and back comfort Cons On the smaller side Expensive Miya Tsudome The KÜHL Eskape Messenger ($249) stands out as a versatile and rugged option for those who might be more inclined to spend time outdoors. KÜHL is a company known for its outdoor gear, and the brand knows how to make clothing and accessories that can stand up to abuse — and the Eskape is no different. 

　　Crafted from premium materials like weather-resistant, TPU-laminated nylon, the Eskape Messenger is engineered to endure the elements, whether navigating bustling city streets or venturing into the wilderness. Water-resistant zippers will bring you even more peace of mind. The shoulder strap is easily changeable to your left or right side and infinitely adjustable, so you can dial in your fit from casual to bike-ready. A stow-away hip belt is also there for when you need extra stability. 

　　Our lead reviewer, Miya, was impressed with the laptop compartment which is actually made with a thick layer of padding for protection. Like most messenger bags in our review, it only fits up to a 15” laptop. But it actually lives up to its padding claim, with many other bags only having a slim amount of foam or felt as their form of protection. This also doubles as padding for your back and makes this bag very comfortable with no awkward stiff material to rub against. 

　　KÜHL really tricked this bag out, and this is evident by its high price tag. But it has so many details that make it worth it, like its easy-to-use magnetic clasps, and high-visibility interior for better organization. It’s like a premium version of the Osprey Metron 18, though it lacks the rain cover that comes with the Osprey, is a bit smaller, and costs twice as much. 

　　Overall, the KÜHL Eskape Messenger is a great choice for those outdoors-minded folk in search of a practical bag that can keep pace with their dynamic lifestyle. Whether its a day at the office, errands around town, or an outdoor excursion, this bag delivers both form and function.

　　Check Price at ScheelsCheck Price at KÜHL Messenger Bag Comparison Chart

　　We put hours in the saddle testing these messenger bags, and our lineup are the packs we couldnt stop from grabbing on the daily; (photo/Miya Tsudome) Our GearJunkie testers are avid commuters, with decades of combined experience traveling via bike, train, bus, and plane. From the city streets of Los Angeles to the mountain town of Bishop, California, our testers have covered a lot of ground with these messenger bags and know what to look for in a good one.

　　From flying frequently around the country for work, to biking daily to coffee shops in her small town, our lead tester, Miya Tsudome, has had over two decades of hands-on experience with messenger bags, her go-to choice from college until now. She uses a messenger bag for her daily carry and also has a messenger bag for her photography equipment.

　　Miya tested this fleet of bags over the course of a month, making sure to carry each with a full load for a bike commute of four miles roundtrip, walked to many coffee shops and ran errands around town, and carefully evaluated their organization, weatherproofing capabilities, and quality of their design.

　　Though no one bag “has it all,” there are many high-quality bags to choose from, and some that may fit your needs better than others. Are you looking for a classic messenger bag to take on a bike commute? Or a more casual shoulder bag for taking the train to the office? Are you looking for something sleek enough for the office or rugged enough to stand up to some weather?

　　It’s worth considering how large your laptop is and making sure the bag you choose is compatible. Also, consider the general volume of the bag depending on how much you plan to carry. And if you are the type to pack a lot, maybe consider a backpack so you don’t hurt your shoulders.

　　Choosing a messenger bag that will work for you depends on a lot, but most importantly, it comes down to comfort, organization, and protection; (photo/Miya Tsudome) Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose a Messenger Bag Comfort Comfort is an important metric when evaluating a bag that you’ll likely be carrying a lot — from home to office, through airports and train commutes, and beyond. The biggest indicator of a bag’s comfort is in the construction of its strap and its carry style. If youre after a pack thats in it for more of the long haul, check out our Best Travel Backpacks guide.

　　Carry Style Traditionally, a messenger bag is meant to be carried in a crossbody style. With roots in bike messenger travel, these bags have straps that will sling over one shoulder with the bag orientated diagonally across your back. This allows the bag to stay closer to your center of gravity while riding, and won’t get in the way, much like a backpack.

　　The Timbuk2 Classic, Osprey Metron 18, Mission Workshop Monty, and Mission Workshop Khyte are examples of this classic messenger bag carry style. Our testers think that this carry style is conducive to more comfort, as they often have larger, padded straps and the diagonal orientation high up on your torso provides better weight distribution and is less likely to cause sore shoulders.

　　The crossbody carry keeps the messenger bag high on your back, and keeps straps out of your spokes; (photo/Miya Tsudome) The other carry style is a regular shoulder strap that causes a bag to fall at the hips. You can wear these bags crossbody of course, but the bag will stay in a horizontal position lower on your torso. Examples of this are the Timbuk2 Closer Laptop Briefcase, Peak Design Everyday Messenger, and Aer Commuter Brief 2.

　　Some folks may not want the more specialized look of the traditional messenger bag and opt for this more casual shoulder strap style of carrying. When loaded up, however, these bags can get heavy and aren’t as conducive to bike riding. They can also swing around on your back more and cause pressure points on your shoulders. The Topo Designs Mountain Cross Bag comes with two straps, so you can choose your preferred carry method.

　　Better suited to a walking commute, shoulder straps sling the pack at your hips; (photo/Miya Tsudome) Shoulder Straps Shoulder straps are an obvious component of the comfort category, and can really make or break an experience with a messenger bag. Our testers appreciate wider, thicker straps with ample padding to provide cushion and help distribute weight more evenly.

　　The Mission Workshop Monty has the most comfortable shoulder straps we tested, with an optional sternum strap and a very satisfying, quick-adjust aluminum buckle on the front of the strap. In comparison, the Mission Workshop Khyte has a lesser quality strap, though you can switch it out with the Deluxe Messenger Strap for an additional $50. The Timbuk2 Classic is not overbuilt in any way and has a simple shoulder strap made with OrthoLite foam.

　　Organization and Size When it comes to messenger bags, size matters. Too big, and you’ll overload it with stuff and wish you’d bought a backpack instead. Too small and you’ll be bummed when it won’t fit much else other than your laptop. All of the bags in our review are between 10 and 24 liters. The utility of a messenger bag, besides just a statement of style, is for quick access to the interior by swinging it in front of the body. So it has to be somewhat small and nimble.

　　Organization is also paramount, as you don’t want your small items to get lost inside a cavernous main compartment. And the best messenger bags will have some thoughtful organizational components to help you remember where everything is.

　　A dedicated laptop sleeve is almost a given on any good messenger bag these days — just pay attention to the size; (photo/Miya Tsudome) When selecting a messenger bag, especially if organization is a priority for you, here are some important features you might want to consider:

　　Multiple compartments: Look for a bag with multiple compartments of various sizes. This allows you to separate and organize your belongings efficiently, preventing items from getting lost or tangled.

　　Padded laptop compartment or sleeve: If you carry a laptop or tablet, a padded compartment is crucial to protect your device from bumps and scratches. You’ll want to ensure that the compartment is appropriately sized to accommodate your device. Most messenger bags will fit smaller laptops of 11-14”, but you’ll have to make sure to double-check the dimensions if you have a bigger model. And if you’re on the fence about buying a messenger bag to carry your tech around, check out our review of laptop backpacks that might make for a more comfortable carrying experience.

　　Interior Pockets and Sleeves: Interior pockets and sleeves are great for organizing smaller items like pens, keys, and chargers. They keep these essentials easily accessible while preventing them from cluttering up the main compartment because there’s nothing worse than your keys getting tangled up in your charging cables.

　　Exterior Pockets: Exterior pockets are handy for items you need quick access to, such as your phone, wallet, or water bottle. Look for pockets with secure closures like zippers or magnetic snaps to keep your belongings safe, or stretch pockets to accommodate an umbrella or water bottle.

　　Key Clip or Key Ring: A key clip or ring inside the bag provides a designated spot to attach your keys, preventing them from getting lost in the bottom of the bag.

　　A messenger bag without organization sleeves and pockets becomes a black hole, so look for one with sufficient storage separation; (photo/Miya Tsudome) Electronics Protection While what you carry around in your messenger bag will vary from person to person, it’s more than likely that you’ll be carrying around some electronics. Most messenger bags will come with some form of a laptop sleeve or dedicated compartment. It’s wise to look for ones that have padding for additional protection, like in the Aer Commuter Brief 2 or the Topo Designs Mountain Cross Bag.

　　The Mission Workshop Khyte has a dedicated waterproof laptop sleeve which provides some serious protection in case you get caught in some inclement weather on your commute. And we love that the Osprey Metron 18 also comes with a rain cover to really bring you peace of mind while you’re out and about.

　　Keeping your point-and-shoot both accessible — and dry — is a balance, but large flaps help to manage it all; (photo/Miya Tsudome) The Mission Workshop Monty is the only bag in our lineup that does not come with a dedicated laptop compartment, which is unfortunate. Though it is an overall well-constructed and rugged bag that will keep your items protected under its heavy-duty flap, and will just require you to have your laptop in a sleeve already.

　　We also wish that the Peak Design Everyday Messenger came with some weather protection because it is meant to hold multiple lenses and cameras, and could thus definitely use a rain cover or a beefier lid system. Though, we also rounded up some of the best camera bags if you’re looking to compare this specific kind of bag.

　　The internal organization of the Peak Design Everyday Messenger is primed for camera kits, with soft dividers to cradle lens and camera bodies; (photo/Miya Tsudome) Design and Materials When youre looking for your next messenger bag, make sure to check out the materials and overall quality to ensure youre getting something thatll last. Nylon and polyester are lightweight and hold up well against the elements. All of the bags in our review are made of some sort of nylon. Other classic messenger bags can be made with canvas or leather, and portray a different style if that’s something you’re looking for.

　　The Timbuk2 Classic, Closer, Peak Design Everyday Messenger, Topo Designs Mountain Cross Bag, and KÜHL Eskape Messenger are all made with recycled materials as a bonus. It’s always good to look for material with a DWR finish, which stands for durable water repellant and is a coating that makes the fabric more water resistant.

　　The Topo Designs Mountain Cross Bag was one of the most stylish in our review, and got compliments wherever we went; (photo/Miya Tsudome) You can also pay attention to the denier of the fabric, which is a unit of measurement that indicates the thickness of the fabric’s individual threads and, thus, its overall durability. The Mission Workshop Monty has the highest denier fabric in our review, made with 1000-denier Cordura. Some other bags, like the Peak Design Everyday Messenger and the Osprey Metron 18, are made with 400-500 denier fabric which is still a testament to their quality and is plenty durable enough for daily use.

　　Once youve got the material down, take a look at the stitching and hardware. You want stitches that can handle your load without popping, especially around stress points like the straps. The KÜHL Eskape Messenger is reinforced in high-abrasion areas, and the Aer Commuter Brief 2 has 1680D Cordura ballistic nylon side exteriors.

　　And those buckles, zippers, and clasps? They should be smooth operators that give you easy access while keeping your stuff secure.

　　Lastly, it’s always good to give the bag a once-over for craftsmanship. You want clean seams, tight stitching, and all the pieces lining up just right. Loose threads or wonky seams might be a sign of shoddy construction thatll leave you hanging down the road.

　　Metal buckles have our hearts, and help put our minds at ease when carrying a bag with our livelihoods inside; (photo/Miya Tsudome) Weather-Proofing Whether youre dodging raindrops on your daily commute or trekking through unpredictable weather, you want a bag that can keep your gear dry. Look for materials like nylon, polyester, or treated canvas that offer water-resistant or waterproof properties like the aforementioned DWR found on the Osprey Metron 18 and Peak Design Everyday Messenger.

　　Sealed seams and water-resistant zippers are also must-haves to keep moisture from sneaking in through the cracks, as found on the burly KÜHL Eskape Messenger. And if you really want to go the extra mile, some bags like the Osprey Metron 18 come with rain covers or built-in waterproof linings for added protection when the skies open up.

　　The Osprey Metron 18 was the only bag in our review to come with a removable rain cover, which can be perfect to deploy during surprise storms; (photo/Miya Tsudome) When youre shopping for a messenger bag that can stand up to the elements and go the distance, keeping an eye out for weatherproofing features and durable construction ensures youre investing in a bag thats ready for whatever adventure comes your way.

　　Price Messenger bags come in a wide range of prices, catering to different budgets and preferences. At the lower end of the spectrum, you can find affordable options starting from around $20 to $50. Though not covered in this review, you can find bags in this price range, and these budget-friendly bags often feature basic designs and materials like nylon or polyester, with fewer organizational features and less durable construction.

　　While they may lack some of the bells and whistles of higher-priced options, they can still serve as functional carryalls for everyday use, making them a solid choice for those on a tight budget or looking for a simple solution.

　　In the mid-range, messenger bags typically range from $50 to $150, which make up the bulk of the bags in our review. These bags strike a balance between affordability and quality, offering a wider variety of materials, styles, and features to choose from. Youll find options made from durable fabrics likely with water-resistant properties, with more organizational compartments, padded laptop sleeves, and reinforced stitching for added durability.

　　Although they may require a bit more upfront investment, these mid-range bags often provide better value in terms of longevity and functionality, making them a popular choice for those seeking a reliable everyday carry, a great bike commuter companion, or a sleek briefcase for the office.

　　At $145, the Aer Commuter Brief 2 sits smack dab in the mid-range of messenger bags, and is well-balanced for it; (photo/Miya Tsudome) At the higher end of the price spectrum, messenger bags can range from $150 to $400 or more.These premium bags can be crafted from high-quality materials like 1000-denier nylon fabric, or, though not covered in this review, full-grain leather or waxed canvas. These bags will have meticulous attention to detail and superior craftsmanship.

　　The Mission Workshop Khyte, at $390 is the most expensive bag in our review, with its two-layer waterproof construction and premium buckles and zippers. While the initial cost may be steep, these top-tier messenger bags offer unparalleled durability, style, and functionality, making them a worthwhile investment for those who demand the best.

　　Ultimately, the price you pay for a messenger bag depends on your budget, needs, and personal preferences. While budget-friendly options can provide a cost-effective solution for basic carrying needs, investing in a higher-priced bag can offer better quality, durability, and features that enhance your everyday carry experience. Whether youre looking for a simple and affordable option or a premium bag that combines style and functionality, theres a messenger bag out there for you.

　　While not mandatory, a good messenger bag just feels right on a bike; (photo/Miya Tsudome) FAQ Are messenger bags better for your back? It’s worth emphasizing that messenger bags can distribute weight unevenly, as they are typically worn over one shoulder, which can lead to strain and discomfort, especially if youre carrying heavy loads for extended periods. The asymmetric distribution of weight may also cause postural issues over time, such as uneven muscle development or strain on one side of the body.

　　How do you comfortably wear a messenger bag? Firstly you want to make sure you know what kind of strap is on the bag you have chosen. If it’s a classic messenger style, you’ll wear the bag higher up on your back and will likely want a close-to-body fit, pulling the shoulder strap tight across your chest. If it comes with a regular shoulder strap, which causes the bag to hang at your hip, you can choose to wear it crossbody or on one shoulder and adjust the strap to your height and comfort level.

　　Try to distribute the bags weight evenly across your body by adjusting the strap length and positioning the bag securely against your side. Avoid overloading the bag with heavy items, as this can cause strain on your shoulder and back over time.

　　Some messenger bags come with a stabilizing strap or waist belt that helps distribute weight more evenly and prevents the bag from shifting while you move. If your bag has one, use it to enhance comfort and stability.

　　Throughout the day, periodically adjust the strap length and position of the bag to ensure continued comfort and support. Listen to your body and make adjustments as needed to prevent discomfort or strain.

　　Why are messenger bags better than backpacks? While messenger bags offer certain advantages, they may not necessarily be superior to backpacks in all situations, especially if you are carrying heavier loads. But there are a few reasons why people might prefer messenger bags over their two-strap cousins.

　　Accessibility: Messenger bags typically feature a flap or quick-release buckle design that allows for easy access to the bags contents without needing to remove it entirely. This can be convenient for quickly retrieving items like laptops, notebooks, or documents, especially in a work or commuting environment.

　　Style: Messenger bags often have a sleek and professional appearance that appeals to individuals who prefer a more urban or sophisticated look. They can be suitable for work, school, or casual outings, adding a touch of style to your look.

　　Mobility: Messenger bags are worn across the body, which can offer greater mobility and freedom of movement compared to backpacks, particularly in crowded or tight spaces. The single shoulder strap allows for quick and easy adjustment, making it convenient for activities like biking or navigating public transportation.

　　While messenger bags offer these advantages, its important to consider the potential drawbacks as well, such as uneven weight distribution, limited storage capacity, and the potential for shoulder or back strain with heavy loads. Ultimately, the best choice between messenger bags and backpacks depends on individual preferences, needs, and comfort preferences.

　　What’s the difference between a satchel and a messenger bag? Historically, satchels have a long history dating back centuries, originally used by messengers, postal workers, and travelers to carry letters, documents, and other items. Over time, satchels evolved into fashionable accessories associated with academia and business attire. In contrast, the modern messenger bag gained popularity in the 1980s and 1990s as a practical and stylish accessory for urban commuters and students, inspired by the bags used by bike messengers and couriers in urban environments.

　　Overall, while both satchels and messenger bags serve similar purposes as shoulder bags for carrying personal items, they cater to different preferences and needs, offering distinct styles, functionalities, and historical backgrounds.

　　What size messenger bag is best? When choosing the right size for a messenger bag, which can range from anywhere between 10 and 24 liters in the case of our review, there are several factors you should think about before pulling the trigger.

　　You’ll want to double-check the size of your laptop, as many messenger bags have different carrying capacities for laptops.

　　Then think about the volume of items you typically carry. Look for a bag with enough compartments and pockets to keep your belongings organized, including essentials like notebooks, water bottles, keys, and wallet.

　　Lastly, consider how you’ll most likely be using the bag. For work or commuting, opt for a size that can accommodate documents and other work-related items. If you plan to use it for travel or outdoor activities, you may need a larger bag to carry extra clothing, snacks, a camera, or other gear.

　　The Best Laptop Backpacks of 2024 Whether you’re headed to the office, class, or even the trailhead, here’s our top picks for the best laptop backpacks of 2024.

　　The Best Backpacks of 2024 A backpack isn’t just the bag on your back — its a mobile home, a traveling office, and a ticket to see the world. After shouldering the best — along with the rest — we’ve found the greatest backpacks for any task.