Whether your office is a cubicle or any open table at the coffee shop, the best work bags for men are more versatile than ever. Modern messenger bags and briefcases look a lot more relaxed than the clunky hard-side box your grandfather lugged around. These new briefcases are flexible, made to carry almost anything, and some even convert into a backpack or messenger bag.
As the briefcase has become more casual, backpacks have moved in the other direction and have officially graduated from the schoolyard. Another style worth considering is a tote bag, which is a versatile style that can handle work, travel, and errands.
Even as work dress codes and gender norms have relaxed, work bags for men are still as essential as ever. Since many people do most or all of their work on a laptop, the best work bags for men have to be able to securely transport computers, chargers, notebooks, and other EDC items. Many of our top picks have secure laptop compartments. For those that don’t, you’ll likely want a laptop sleeve.
Regardless of what job helps you bring home the bacon, we’ve gathered the best work bags for men to carry it in. These bags range from casual messengers to sophisticated briefcases to versatile backpacks.
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Solo New York Urban Carrying Case
Solo’s Duane briefcase made our pick for the best men’s work bag in our best of 2022 round-up, and we love the streamlined design and the fact that it converts from a briefcase to a backpack.
Monos Metro Backpack
Monos Metro backpack is sleekly designed, but there’s more to it than looks. The front of the bag features a detachable kit that you can use on its own or as an outside pocket. and the bag has a stylish, minimalist look.
Carhartt Vertical Snap Tote
When we tested the best tote bags, Carhartt’s came out on top for its style, versatility, and economical price. It’s made from durable and water-resistant polyester and is a good pick if you want a more casual, everyday bag.
Timbuk2 Especial Stash Messenger Bag
Timbuk2 was built as a brand for bike messengers, and they still make great bags for your bike commute. This bag is water-resistant and has a fully waterproof 15-inch laptop sleeve inside.
Bellroy Tokyo Totepack
Bellroy’s Tokyo Totepack has a sleek design and smartly designed compartments, and it’s a great bag for work, the gym, and everywhere else. If you want to carry it in hand, the backpack straps discreetly tuck away.
Ted Baker London Document Bag
Ted Baker’s take on the work bag is sophisticated without being boring. It works as a briefcase or a shoulder bag, and there’s a sleeve for carrying it with luggage. The bag is made from synthetic PU leather.
Filson Dryden Briefcase
Made with ballistic nylon and trimmed with vegetable-tanned leather, this sturdy briefcase has room for both a laptop and gym gear. It has a look that combines ruggedness and sophistication. It’s made from 1000D Cordura with leather handles.
Topo Designs Rover Pack Classic
Topo Designs makes stylish bags inspired by retro hiking and climbing gear. If you work in a more casual office, Topo’s vibrant and colorful bags are a great way to go.
Briggs & Riley Backpack
This backpack is a step up compared to your average school backpack. The number of pockets borders on ridiculous, making it great for anyone who prioritizes organization.
Mission Workshop Monty Messenger Bag
The problem with many messengers is that they tend to swing around when you move. Mission addressed this problem with a clip that slings under the arm, making for the ideal cycling commute bag.
Want Les Essentiels Briefcase
When it comes to bags, it’s hard to think of a brand that does sophisticated minimalism better than Want Les Essentiels. If you’re the type to dress to impress at work, this is the bag to get. It’s made from nylon with a leather trim.
State Graham Tote Bag
State makes some seriously stylish backpacks, and this simple tote bag is a great everyday option. It’s made of durable nylon and has a sleeve for carrying on a suitcase.
Killspencer Leather Briefcase 2.0
Killspencer is a Los-Angeles based company that makes premium leather bags, and our editors have used Killspencer bags for years. At this price, you want bags that last, and these do.
Filson Rugged Twill Tote Bag
Filson makes a rugged and sophisticated take on the tote bag. The bag has leather handles and is made in the US from durable cotton canvas.
Nixon Mode Pack
Nixon’s Mode pack has a 20 liters capacity and includes a padded 15″ laptop sleeve. The stylish and simple bag comes in a range of colors, including gray, black, green, and orange.
SOLO RE:STORE TOTE
We tested Solo’s RE:STORE tote when looking for the best tote bags, and we liked the suitcase handle sleeve and the fact that this bag has plenty of pockets.
Herschel Supply Co Travel Briefcase
Herschel’s bags are an on-campus staple, but this sleek, minimal bag proves the brand is all grown up. It’s made from durable Cordura nylon and can be carried in hand or over the shoulder.
Timbuk2 Tuck Laptop Backpack
Timbuk2’s rolltop bag is stylish and has plenty of storage capacity, and the rear access laptop pocket is a secure but convenient way to keep your device within reach.