The Best Messenger Bags for Tech, Travel, and EDC (2022)

Backpacks are considered the carry comfort kings. Duffels are the gear haulers. But when it comes to access and agility, the best messenger bags and shoulder bags step up for their time to shine. For many users, crossbody bags are go-to choices for quick access to gear on the move. They also tend to draw people who want to carry smaller loads or shed unnecessary carry bulk. And they also tend to get the nod of approval in work settings, where in many cases they bring a more formal and professional feel to your work setup than a backpack.

Messengers vs shoulder bags

So you might have heard the terms ‘messenger’ and ‘shoulder bag’ used interchangeably. But they aren’t actually the same thing. Messengers tend to be associated with more active use (think bags used by bicycle messengers), while shoulder bags play well in sedate settings. Features such as stabilizer straps are more common in messengers (again, to assist in load stability during active use). And in general messengers will wrap round the body more (a rigid design isn’t great if you’re pounding the pedals during a bike ride or trying to move nimbly in outdoor environments). That doesn’t mean you can’t use messengers in less strenuous settings or find shoulder bags that will tackle a little adventure now and then.

So with all of that in mind, what is a good brand of messenger bag? We know it can be time-consuming to search through countless bag options. So we’re shouldering the load by rounding up some of the best messenger bags and shoulder bags to suit different needs and settings. But, hey, it’s worth noting most of the below bags cross categories. They’re not only suited to certain needs, but they’re versatile too. Win!

Best shoulder bags for travel

Pacsafe Intasafe Sling (US$79.95)

Pacsafe have spent years honing carry with integrated anti-theft features that don’t draw unwanted attention. With its slim, low-key design and discreet anti-theft features, their Intasafe Sling is a great choice for both business and leisure travel. Features such as Pacsafe’s eXomesh slashguard, Roobar locking system, a Carrysafe slashguard strap, secure zipper tab, and RFID-blocking storage protect your gear from opportunistic thieves. And to keep the rummaging at bay, there’s also a range of interior pockets and space for a 10″ tablet.

Pacsafe Metrosafe LS200 (US$109.95)

The Metrosafe LS200 packs a host of anti-theft features into its compact design that suits carry-on use or a day trip equally well. An integrated Lockabout security clip, eXomesh slashguards, Carrysafe slashguard strap, zipper hooks, and RFIDsafe blocking pocket are just some of the features that will keep sticky fingers away from your belongings. The bag’s main compartment has a padded 10″ tablet sleeve and there are plenty of pockets in the front compartment to organize small essentials.

Best heritage-style shoulder bag

WP Standard Vintage Leather Messenger Bag (US$339)

If you have a soft spot for leather carry, it’s hard not to be drawn towards WP Standard’s gear. They do a darn fine job of combining old-school charm and modern-day functionality. Just like with their Vintage Leather Messenger Bag, which gives a nod to antique postal bags but provides a leaner, modern design. It’s crafted with full-grain vegetable-tanned leather that will only get better with use. Inside you’ll find a suede-lined laptop compartment, with further exterior and interior pockets to store smaller items.

Best heritage-style messenger

Trakke Bairn Messenger Bag (US$200)

Trakke’s Bairn Messenger is a handsome fellow that’s equally up for a day in the office or a stroll outdoors. Handmade in Scotland, it’s designed to keep the weather at bay and also includes a dry-finish waxed canvas lining for added peace of mind. And with a choice of pockets on hand including an interior 13″ laptop sleeve, you’ll have no problem keeping your bits and pieces tidy on the move.

Bedouin Foundry Barbarossa (~US$330)

Bedouin Foundry make some of the most beautiful messengers around, with sophisticated silhouettes and premium materials that exude quality from day one to years down the line. But it’s not just pretty looks here. The Barbarossa is meticulously handmade in Lincolnshire, England, and built for years of demanding use. It features a suave combination of 12 oz. waxed canvas from Halley Stevensons and Italian vegetable-tanned leather. A sleek and uber-strong AustriAlpin Cobra buckle does the honors of securing the flap, beneath which you’ll find two sleeve pockets. An interior laptop sleeve holds your tech on the go, while the bag’s fully padded design also makes it an attractive choice for camera carry.

Best shoulder bags for tech

Cargo Works 13″ MacBook EDC Kit (US$59.90)

If you’re after a rugged build, organization options galore, and all in a design that remains slim and adaptable, look to the Cargo Works 13″ MacBook EDC Kit. The bag offers two compartments to carry your tech and everyday or work items. The front compartment features elastic webbing and pockets for smaller accessories and a tablet, while the padded main compartment keeps up to a 13″ laptop safe within its soft microfiber lining. You can carry the bag by hand, with the removable shoulder strap, or secure it to the handle of rolling luggage when travel calls.

Incase Reform 15″ Brief with TENSAERLITE (~US$70)

Incase takes tech protection to the next level with their Reform 15″ Brief. An integrated compression-molded cage crafted from impact-absorbing Tensaerlite™ material ensures bumps and shocks aren’t a concern for your precious tech. The Tensaerlite™ cage fits a 15″ MacBook and includes a faux-fur lining for added protection. The bag’s lay-flat opening helps you move quickly through airport security screening. And for smaller accessories and EDC, the front organizer compartment has you covered with multiple pockets and a tablet sleeve. Sling it over your shoulder with the included detachable strap or carry it with the top handle for briefcase-style mode.

Best tech messenger bags

Chrome Industries Buran III (US$170)

The Chrome Buran III nods to heritage styling but is built for modern-day tech carry. A host of pockets provide quick yet secure access to tech and EDC items, including a dedicated padded 17″ laptop sleeve and interior attachment points for Chrome laptop sleeves. This tech messenger bag also features a reversible shoulder strap for right or left carry, a weatherproof liner, and Chrome’s iconic seatbelt buckle with an integrated bottle opener.

Timbuk2 Especial Stash (US$179)

Timbuk has your tech carry well covered with their Especial Stash, a weatherproof messenger designed to keep tech secure and safe from the elements during your daily commute. Complementing the weather-resistant exterior is an interior waterproof 15″ laptop compartment. Magnetic buckles provide ease of access, while the ambixdextrous strap offers comfy carry. Rounding things off is reflective detailing to help increase your visibility in low-light conditions.

Mission Workshop Khyte (US$340)

If you’re looking for rugged handmade construction, weatherproof protection for tech, and versatile understated styling that can transition from work to play, the Khyte might be just right for your needs. This tech messenger bag features two-layer weatherproof construction and water-resistant zippers to protect gear from the elements. Multiple pockets and organization options including an externally accessible 15″ laptop sleeve keep your daily or travel items well organized. And with a variety of colorways on offer, you can choose one that speaks to your personal style too.

Best budget messenger bag for laptops

Incase Compass Messenger (US$69.95)

If you’re after sleek simplicity that blends into work or play environments, Incase’s Compass Messenger will steer you right. The understated design works equally well in an office or your local cafe. Straightforward organization complements the low-key design, with a padded 15″ laptop sleeve and a choice of internal and external pockets to store small items throughout the day.

Best shoulder bag for laptops

Bellroy Laptop Brief (from US$159)

With its understated, water-resistant design and variety of useful pockets for organization, Bellroy’s Laptop Brief is a fine pick for the office, travel use or catching up on a couple of emails in your local cafe. Available in two sizes to suit 13″ and 15″ laptops, the bag includes a luggage pass-through sleeve and a padded shoulder strap that can be tucked away when not required.

Best tactical messengers

ORBITGear R200 “Kestrel MK2” (US$148)

ORBITGear’s R200 “Kestrel MK2” pairs expert craftsmanship, versatile design, hard-wearing construction and awesome value for money in a messenger that can adapt to a range of daily and travel carry needs. Large enough for 12″ tech devices, it also provides attachment points for personalized setups as well as a choice of interior and exterior pockets for smaller items. Handmade with 500D CORDURA, this versatile EDC messenger bag includes an ambidextrous strap system for easy portability.

Greenroom136 Metrorunner PRIME Tactical (around $168)

If you’re looking for tough materials, excellent handmade construction, and practical design for a variety of day-to-day needs, all with great value for money, this messenger should be on your shortlist. It features VX42 laminated X-Pac, premium AustriAlpin Cobra and Fidlock hardware, and a variety of pockets and compartments to organize your gear. Its versatile design holds commuting essentials and travel gear equally well, while its burly build is backed by a lifetime warranty for peace of mind.

Arc’teryx LEAF Courier 15

Designed for Jason Bourne-type operatives, the Arc’teryx LEAF Courier 15 is built to perform, adapt and blend in. A serious bit of kit, honed for the hardest gear users on the planet, it’s made with a ‘cannot fail’ attention to build, access, and adaptability – working in the field, as well as for everyday civilians wanting to crush their daily missions (whilst carrying a laptop and a few snacks too).

Best tactical shoulder bags

Mystery Ranch Indie Shoulder Bag (US$55)

Built tough and flexible to adapt to changing loads and environments, the Indie Shoulder Bag comes in a choice of durable yet lightweight materials to embrace demanding use with ease. The low-key design stealths easily into a variety of settings and accommodates a range of setups, from EDC to travel essentials. Plus it won’t break the bank either, which is always a bonus.

Mystery Ranch 3 Way Briefcase Expandable (US$150)

If you love carry that offers a lot of flexibility, the Mystery Ranch 3 Way Briefcase Expandable is definitely one to scope out. It adapts to a range of carry needs thanks to its stowable backpack straps, removable shoulder strap and top grab handles. There’s also plenty of pockets on hand to neatly store items, including a padded 15″ laptop compartment. And if you need more space? The design expands to provide an additional 5L of storage for larger loads.

Best shoulder bags for photography

Thule Aspect DSLR Shoulder Bag (US$69.95)

The Aspect DSLR Shoulder Bag keeps a small camera setup safe with trusty Thule functionality and excellent value for money. The bag features padded tablet storage and customizable dividers in the main compartment to tailor it to different needs. You’ll also find top, front and side pockets for camera accessories and EDC items. The front-folding lid makes it easy to access gear on the go. And speaking of on the go, there’s a top carry handle and an adjustable shoulder strap for shoulder or crossbody use.

Chrome Industries Niko Hold Camera Bag (~US$80)

Keen on versatile camera carry with the freedom to convert an existing bag into a camera bag? The Niko Hold could be just right for your needs. The bag can be used as a standalone camera bag, with carry handles and a detachable shoulder strap for convenience. However, you can also fit the Niko Hold inside almost any Chrome bag (or another bag if the dimensions suit) to convert it into a camera bag. The Niko offers a wide opening for easy access and customizable dividers to adapt to different loads.

f-stop Florentin (US$119.99)

With its water-resistant, low-profile design the f-stop Florentin is an appealing option for carrying camera gear under the radar in urban settings. Suitable for a small camera setup, the Florentin includes a removable padded main compartment with three dividers. There’s also storage for up to a 12″ tablet or laptop, as well as a front organizer pocket. You’ve also got portability options on hand here too, with a luggage handle sleeve, top carry handles and a shoulder strap.

HoldFast Gear Roamographer Camera Bag (US$610)

The Roamographer is a head-turner for sure, merging vintage charm with luxurious construction. The bag is handcrafted with durable and beautiful American Bison leather and features a removable camera insert with multiple pockets to protect and organize your photography gear. A camera can also be secured to the shoulder strap for ready access on the go. The Roamographer comes in a choice of sizes to suit smaller or larger loads too.

Best photography messenger bags

Peak Design Everyday Messenger (from US$229.95)

One of the most innovative camera messengers to hit the scene in recent years, Peak Design’s Everyday Messenger does double duty as an EDC messenger bag and camera bag. Able to carry a 13″ tech device, the bag thoughtfully combines a variety of features into a stylish and functional whole. From expandability and one-handed access to highly customizable organization with FlexFold dividers and multiple pockets, the folks at Peak Design have pretty much thought of everything. All brought together in a weatherproof, durable and stylish design that moves easily between diverse carry environments and requirements.

ONA Brooklyn Camera Messenger Bag (~US$530)

The ONA Brooklyn takes inspiration from 1940s school bags but delivers a photography twist. The tuck lock closures provide easy access to the soft interior, where three dividers help organize your gear. Externally you’ll find a front pocket as well as a back pocket suitable for slim items such as a tablet. Handmade with full-grain leather, it’s a stylish pick for both formal and informal photography shoots.

Best messenger bags for professionals

Lexdray Symmetry Mumbai Messenger Bag (US$189)

Lexdray’s Symmetry Mumbai Messenger Bag offers flexibility and a little personality, while still retaining a functional, work-ready design and aesthetic. Multiple compartments and pockets keep your tech, work supplies and EDC easily accessible. But that organization is also adaptable, with a large main compartment that stays slim for smaller loads but accommodates larger loads or bulky items when duty calls. And with its tough, highly weather-resistant build, you don’t need to worry about rainy commutes.

Best shoulder bags for professionals

Bellroy Duo Work Bag (US$279)

Bellroy’s Duo Work Bag packs a lot of functionality into an understated, clean design that suits formal and informal work settings alike. Top carry handles, a removable shoulder strap and a luggage pass-through sleeve provide portability options. The bag has a padded 15″ laptop compartment and a variety of additional pockets organize work tools, EDC and travel items. Plus it’s expandable when you need extra packing space. Rounding things off is a durable, water-resistant build that will protect your gear from the elements while looking stylish every step of the way.

Ally Capellino Jeremy Small Waxed Cotton Satchel (~US$237)

With its lightweight yet durable build and sleek lines, the Jeremey Small Waxed Cotton Satchel cuts a dashing figure in the workplace. Made from waxed cotton fabric with a bridle leather strap and buckle closures, it won’t weigh you down during the commute. A quick-access back pocket stashes small essentials, while the main compartment suits minimalist loads and includes space for a tablet.

Best cycling messengers for professionals

Restrap Pack Messenger Bag (US$69.99)

With its stealthy looks, weatherproof and durable build and versatile design, the Restrap Pack Messenger Bag wheels smoothly from the cycle commute to the office. The tough 1000D Cordura build rolls with demanding use and there’s a stabilizer strap for enhanced load stability during active use. The bag fits a 13″ laptop and has sufficient space to stash a change of clothes if needed.

Apidura City Messenger (from US$110)

Building on years of bikepacking and outdoor cycling experience, Apidura’s City Messenger fuses technical construction and expertise with clean aesthetics for urban settings. The messenger features waterproof, lightweight CT420 Marle material and welded construction to keep the elements out. The zipless opening offers quick and convenient one-handed access and you also benefit from dedicated storage for 11″ or 13″ tech. Add in the ambidextrous strap and you get a stylish commuting companion for on and off the bike.

Brooks England Strand (US$126)

The Brooks England Strand exudes pared-back professionalism with its clean design made from weatherproof coated nylon and Cordura. Inside you’ll find a padded laptop compartment and pockets for small items, while an exterior back pocket stores quick-access items. And for carry comfort on the go, the bag has an adjustable shoulder strap and a belt to secure the load.

Mission Workshop The Monty Advanced (US$245)

Made in the USA with water-resistant, durable HT500 fabric, the Mission Workshop Monty Advanced is tough enough to embrace whatever the commute throws at you, while delivering sleek work-friendly styling. It fits up to a 15″ laptop in the main compartment, with a selection of pockets to store smaller gear. It secures with Mission Workshop’s Arkiv® closure system and provides a removable stabilizer strap. Plus it’s backed by a lifetime guarantee.

Brooks England Barbican Hard Leather Shoulder Bag (US$343)

Pricey but oh so chic, the Brooks England Barbican Hard Leather Shoulder Bag is crafted in England with vegetable-tanned leather (the same used in their saddles). Simple, suave and adaptable, this shoulder bag looks slick in office settings, out and about in town or on your travels. The adjustable shoulder strap also serves as a waist belt for securing the bag during more active use.

Best outdoor messengers

Chrome Industries Welterweight Citizen (~US$146)

Built as a lighter version of the original, the Chrome Industries Welterweight Citizen is a tough and adaptable messenger for carrying work supplies and weekend essentials alike. The water-resistant bag includes a stabilizer strap, reflective detailing and a quick-release buckle for life on two wheels, along with sufficient space for up to a 17″ laptop and pockets for storing smaller items.

Patagonia Stealth Sling 10L (US$159)

The Stealth Sling is a dependable outdoor companion for fishing trips. It’s built with a range of intuitive organization options to keep your fishing gear secure yet easily accesible when required including a net holder and quick-access storage for fly boxes. Designed to be light, quiet, comfortable for all-day wear and of course water-resistant too, it’s a dependable piece that gives you the freedom to make the most of fishing trips.

Timbuk2 Especial Stash 22L Messenger (~US$248)

With its abrasion-resistant build, weather-resistant exterior, waterproof laptop compartment, and reflective detailing, Timbuk2’s Especial Stash 22L Messenger takes commuting or outdoor exploring in any weather in its stride. The bag has an ambidextrous shoulder strap with a quick-release buckle, as well as magnetic buckles on the flap to help you easily access gear. It fits a 17″ laptop and its lifetime warranty is a welcome bonus too.

Arc’teryx Granville 10 Courier Bag (US$140)

Arc’teryx blends sleek technical construction with everyday functionality to create a messenger that looks good on urban streets but is tough enough for outdoor adventures too. The Granville 10 Courier Bag offers padded storage for a 12″ tech device and a quick-access external pocket. The highly weather-resistant build features water-resistant AC² fabric and taped seams in critical areas. Additionally, the ambidextrous shoulder strap and stabilizer strap help keep the load comfy and stable while you’re out and about.

Best ‘designer’ shoulder bags

Ally Capellino Kenny (~US$95)

The Ally Capellino Kenny brings chic style to your daily commute, about-town jaunts and travel excursions. Made with lightweight, abrasion-resistant, and water-resistant Cordura© nylon, it’s tough enough for daily use and understated enough to suit a variety of carry environments. The bag is large enough for 13″ tech devices and includes a minimalist yet functional range of pockets to keep your gear organized without cluttering up the design.

côte&ciel Oder-Spree Obsidian Black Messenger Bag (US$215)

A lot of designer bags lean heavily towards fashion over function. But côte&ciel delivers a great mix of both with the Oder-Spree Obsidian Black Messenger Bag. The bag features PU-coated water-repellant obsidian black polyester and an ergonomic design that carries close to the body for comfort. Complementing the fashion-forward styling is functional organization including a padded laptop pocket, two exterior zipped pockets, and an open rear pocket for quick-access items.

Best large Japanese messenger

AS2OV Cordura Dobby 305D 2Way Bag (US$253)

Rugged street style, flexible carry options and plenty of space makes this AS2OV Cordura Dobby 305D 2Way Bag well suited to overnight trips, hauling large day-to-day loads or combining gym and work gear for convenient one-bag carry. The bag can be carried as a messenger or a tote and offers a variety of pockets including a padded laptop pocket.

Key Considerations When Choosing Your Bag

Ultimately, a lot of factors come into play to determine where messengers and shoulder bags will excel. Check out these tips on what to look for when choosing your ideal shoulder or messenger bag.

Style

If you need a splash of fashion with your function, you may be wondering, are messenger bags still cool? Of course they are! And are messenger bags unisex? For the most part, yes. But this incredibly popular carry category comes in a great variety of styles, colorways, and materials to cater to a wide range of tastes and needs. So to help you choose, it’s useful to think about where you’ll be using the bag.

Do you need it for work purposes? If so, is your work environment smart-casual or formal? In these cases, understated colorways like black, gray, navy, or tan will blend in better (no matter how much you may be digging that blazing orange, it’s best saved for after-work hours). Clean silhouettes or soft draping designs will also be easier to fit in formal environments than “busy” designs that draw the eye (but not for the right reasons). If you won’t be using the bag for work purposes (or your work environment is more laid-back), you’ve got a little more freedom in the style department. Yep, bring on that blazing orange…

Size and weight

Obviously your messenger or shoulder bag needs to be large enough to hold all the gear you need it to. But you’ll want to be careful here. The bigger the bag is, the more bulk you’ll be carrying around. Ask yourself if the added space is worth the increased weight and bulk penalty. Maybe you need it or really value the ability to accommodate a variety of loads from one day to the next. But if you tend to carry a set amount of gear, picking a bag that’s just big enough without adding unnecessary weight may be a better option.

For example, are messenger bags good for laptops? Some are much better suited to tech carry than others and will be sized accordingly to fit different devices. They may also have additional features such as padded sleeves that add to the bulk. Potentially increased size and bulk is a worthy trade-off if you regularly carry a laptop but unnecessary if you don’t.

Access

So you’ve got a bag that’s the right size and suits your style, but how about getting to your gear? One of the key advantages of messengers and shoulder bags over other types of carry is the on-body access they provide. The ability to easily swing them round to your front to get to frequently used essentials or to access gear from the main compartment without having to remove the bag from your shoulder. Features such as quick-release shoulder straps, exterior pockets, magnetic or one-handed flap buckles, and multiple access points to the main compartment will help you get to gear in a jiffy.

Durability

Are you going to be putting your bag through the wringer on regular cycle commutes? Shoving it in and out of overhead compartments or heading off into the wilderness for a day of exploring trails or outdoor photography? The more demanding you are on your bag, the tougher it will need to be. Abrasion-resistant and water-resistant materials along with trusty construction will help your bag cope when the going gets tough. Great for an EDC messenger bag that needs to endure demanding use or a travel messenger bag you can rely on to keep going strong. If your bag will be living a more relaxed or sheltered life, you can dial back on the durability, which may help you cut some weight.

Comfort

While shoulder bags and messengers don’t offer the same level of load distribution that backpacks do, they can still be comfortable to carry. Keep an eye out for a wide shoulder strap that will help spread the load a little, as well as padding on the strap to help enhance comfort. For more active use your chosen bag should offer good breathability in the back panel, a design that hugs the body, and a stabilizer strap or waist belt to help secure the load. And carry handles come in useful too when you want to give your shoulder a breather or are carrying the bag over shorter distances or in more formal environments.

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What’s your favorite shoulder bag or messenger? Hit us in the comments. 

This article was originally published on 26 February 2019 and recently updated.