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10 Best Messenger Bags (Updated Reviews) in 2022
Those of you looking for the best messenger bags might be a bit overwhelmed by the large number of products available in this category. However, the good news is that the selection below is here to help you make the right choice, so go through the extensive reviews of the highest-rated models and take your pick.
1. Newhey Men’s Messenger Bag Vintage Genuine Leather
This NEWHEY messenger bag comes with plenty of features that make it an excellent choice for anyone who is looking for a stylish item. The first thing that you should note is that this product is made of genuine leather, so you can only imagine that it’s a highly durable one.
Moreover, the manufacturer also made this a waterproof alternative. Therefore, if you need to use it throughout an entire day, you won’t have to worry about the weather ruining anything that you may carry inside the bag. The product also features a very cool-looking vintage style that includes scratches and disordered wrinkles.
Besides the fact that it looks very good, you won’t have to worry if you accidentally scratch it yourself, as this won’t be noticeable. Also, this is a pretty generous bag, so you’ll be able to carry plenty inside that you may need to use as your day progresses.
Pros
With nine pockets included in the design, out of which five are outer ones and four are placed inside the bag, you won’t have any trouble organizing all the necessary items.
This handy bag can carry a wide range of objects, while the adjustable and padded shoulder strap makes it more comfortable to wear.
This messenger bag comes with magnetic snaps, as well as with zippers, to help keep your belongings safe.
Given its overall dimensions, this is an extremely versatile item that can be used for college, school, work, travel, business, and many other applications.
Cons
This is a genuine leather bag, so you shouldn’t allow it to absorb water, but you don’t need to use an air dryer either, as using a microfiber towel to absorb any water is the way to go.
The zipper might develop some issues after a while, so you can contact the seller for further details.
2. Kattee Leather Canvas Camera Bag
Sporting a classical style, this Kattee bag is an excellent choice for anyone who wants to have a reliable partner to carry a wide range of items throughout the day. One of the most important things you should know about this product is that it’s an extremely durable one. The high-density exterior canvas can successfully face even rough conditions.
Moreover, the cotton liner adds to the bag’s overall sturdiness, while the genuine cow leather trim makes it both strong and highly fashionable. While some people may choose to use this item as a camera bag, it can have a wide range of other uses as well, for everyday tasks.
However, if you do want to take it out on weekends for some photography, then it’s good to know that the bag was designed for DSLR cameras, and it works great with models from well-known brands, such as Nikon, Sony, or Olympus, to name a few.
Pros
You can use the wide range of pockets included in this design to store all kinds of objects, such as cards, CDs, or other similar items.
Thanks to its classical design, this bag goes very well with a wide range of clothes, so you won’t have to make any kind of compromises in terms of style.
The self-adhering dividers included in the bag’s interior are padded, thus protecting the items you are carrying from impacts, and they also provide a great way to keep everything organized.
The bag’s interior also includes a soft liner that works great in keeping any electronics from being damaged during transportation.
Cons
The side buckles are not magnetic, so you actually have to unbuckle them every time you reach for something placed in those pockets.
There is no pocket that can fit a bottle of water, so you may have to find another solution for this.
3. Lifewit 17.3" Mens Messenger Bag Vintage
If you are in the market for a messenger bag that includes superior genuine leather elements, then you should certainly take a closer look at this Lifewit model. The manufacturer used materials of the highest quality in order to make a durable and stylish item. The high-quality hardware and the sturdy wash canvas fabric make this bag one that you will use for a long time.
Another important aspect when choosing such an item is the interior elements that help you keep everything organized. This model was specially designed for tech items as well, so you won’t have any trouble carrying your laptop in the dedicated compartment. Moreover, thanks to the padded foam cotton layers, your device will be protected against shocks.
This bag is also comfortable to wear, given that it comes with an adjustable shoulder strap, as well as a mesh pad that can alleviate shoulder fatigue.
Pros
You will surely enjoy using this bag, thanks to the multiple pockets included in the design that help you keep everything organized.
The main laptop compartment features a padded design to keep your device safe, so potential shocks that we encounter daily are not going to be an issue.
The side pockets include magnetic buckles, while the front ones are equipped with snaps, so you will be able to easily access the items that you place there.
This model is larger than common briefcases, so carrying all the necessary items throughout the entire day is not going to be a problem, while the compartments that include snap closures ensure added safety.
Cons
The zipper’s handle might fall off if you don’t handle it with care, so this is something that you should be aware of.
The leather straps are a bit thin, but they do hold up well, so this is not going to be a problem.
4. Estarer Computer Messenger Shoulder Bag
The first thing that you are going to notice about this Estarer bag is the nice design that simply goes well with anything you may be wearing. However, there’s much more than meets the eye in terms of quality and overall construction. The manufacturer took the users’ reviews into account and upgraded the bag, so now it comes with more durable and smooth zippers.
Plus, the front flap uses safe buckles instead of velcro closures, thus ensuring that all your belongings remain well protected as you are traveling with the bag. The main compartment is generous, so you will be able to place your laptop there. However, keep in mind that wide models that go over 17.3 inches might not be able to fit in.
There are also various compartments and pockets included in the design that will help you keep all your items well organized.
Pros
The shoulder strap is adjustable, so you can comfortably carry the bag, while the reinforced stitching seams ensure the unit’s durability.
There are eight pockets included in the design, with two in the bag’s interior and the rest on the sides, as well as in the front and rear, so keeping the necessary items within reach is going to be easy.
The zipper and buckle closures included in the design make this bag a safe one as well, so if you are using public transportation every day, this is one more reason for which to choose this model.
This versatile model works great for work, high school, college, and many other similar types of uses.
Cons
Make sure you take a look at the measurements, because this is a large bag, so it may seem a bit big.
If you are a very tall person, you may want the strap to be a bit longer.
5. Sweetbriar Classic Messenger Bag - Vintage Canvas
This Sweetbriar model is the one you want to keep in mind if you are in the market for a handy messenger bag that includes a very generous main compartment and multiple other useful pockets. Before we go into details about its interior design, it’s good to note that this model looks really good. With a simple yet cool look, it goes well with a wide range of personal styles.
Plus, the fact that it’s available in multiple colors means that you can easily pick the one that goes well with the rest of your wardrobe. Going back to its features, the bag is easy to use, and you can conveniently use the exterior pockets to store the items that you need to keep within reach.
These pockets can also fit water bottles of pretty much all sizes, so keeping yourself hydrated and your belongings organized is not going to be very difficult.
Pros
his is a roomy bag that you can easily use to carry a wide range of personal items, so using it throughout the day is going to make your life a lot easier.
The zippered pouch placed inside the bag can be used to carry small objects, so if you need to organize them, this is not going to be difficult.
The shoulder strap is adjustable, so you can find the right fit for your needs, while the padded element keeps you from experiencing shoulder fatigue.
Made of 100% high-quality cotton, this bag is built to last, and the metal accents add to its overall sturdiness and style.
Cons
Take a look at the bag’s measurements, just to make sure that it works well for your needs.
The main closure is a velcro one, so you want to make sure that it’s securely attached as you walk around the city.
6. S-Zone Vintage Canvas Messenger Bag
This S-ZONE model is a very nice choice that comes with plenty of features, as well as a great-looking design. The sturdy canvas structure is built to last, while the high-quality PU leather trim adds to its sturdiness. If you decide to give this bag a try, you won’t be disappointed, especially since it’s a unit that can be easily used throughout an entire day.
The manufacturer knows that such a messenger needs to be comfortable as well, which is why it added an adjustable shoulder strap. This way, you can find the right fit for using the bag every day. However, it’s important for such an item to be as useful as possible in terms of organizing small items.
For this reason, this S-ZONE model comes with multiple compartments that you can use for this exact purpose, and you won’t have any trouble fitting your laptop inside the bag.
Pros
This bag includes six different compartments and pockets distributed in such a way that you can always keep the items that you need within reach.
The magnetic buckle snaps work very well in keeping the bag closed at all times, and when you do need to take something out of it, they are easy to use, thus saving you time.
With an adjustable shoulder strap, this bag is a versatile one that can be used for work, college, school, shopping, or even outdoor activities.
If you are looking for a great gift idea for your friend, this bag may be just what you need, given its fine design and sturdy construction.
Cons
The side pockets are a bit tight, so if you are planning to keep a water bottle there, this may not be possible.
The magnets could be a bit stronger, so if you are carrying more items than on a normal day, you should make sure that it’s properly closed.
7. Tocode Laptop Messenger Bag For Men & Women
It’s hard to overlook this Tocode model, given that it sports such a fine-looking design, and the really great part about it is that it can be used by both men and women. Therefore, if you are looking for a versatile bag that more members of your family can use, this is the one you want to keep in mind.
This model comes with two convenient front pockets, as well as a velcro pocket placed on the backside that you can use for small items such as keys or cards. Moreover, the main compartment is large enough for you to carry a laptop, documents, and even clothes without any trouble.
No matter if you have a full day and you need to fit a lot of times in order to be prepared for everything on your schedule, this generous and stylish bag is up to the task.
Pros
Featuring a high-quality rugged wash canvas fabric that’s made to last, this bag is going to prove a reliable partner for your daily life.
The laptop compartment includes anti-shock elements that are going to keep your device safe, while the PU leather front cover makes the bag look very good.
The adjustable shoulder strap is wide in order to ensure comfort on the user’s side even when the bag is rather heavy, and it can be used in two different ways.
The PU bottom layer is waterproof, so you don’t need to worry in case you accidentally place your bag on a wet spot, as your documents and laptop are going to be safe.
Cons
You should check out the details provided by the manufacturer on its size, given that it might not be large enough for very wide laptops.
The side pockets come with velcro closures, so you want to make sure that these remain closed at all times.
8. OIWAS Messenger Bag Satchel
This OIWAS model is the right alternative if you are looking for a model that both looks very good and that’s made to last. One of the first things you should know about this unit is that it’s made of waterproof material, which means that even if you are dealing with changing weather conditions, this is not going to be such a big issue.
While keeping your belongings safe from any humidity, it’s also good to note that this item can keep them organized as well, thanks to the way its interior is made. You will be able to place your laptop in the dedicated compartment, which is also specially made to prevent the device from getting scratched.
The rest of the important items can be placed inside the bag, in dedicated compartments as well. This way, you’ll be able to keep everything within reach while you go about your day.
Pros
This bag can be used by both men and women, given its great-looking and versatile design, so if you are looking for such an alternative for your home, this is the one to go for.
With a 600D waterproof material construction, there is little that this bag cannot withstand in terms of rough daily treatment, so it will prove to be extremely reliable in the long run.
Given its construction, this OIWAS model can be used for a wide range of daily activities, from work or travel to school or business-related ones.
Thanks to the shoulder strap that’s adjustable and includes a padded element, you won’t have to deal with fatigue even if you are carrying heavier items.
Cons
There are no pen or pencil holders, so if this is a feature that you use, you may have to find another solution.
There could be some padding added to the laptop’s compartment.
9. Vaschy Messenger Bag For Men
This VASCHY model is a men’s messenger bag that you want to keep in mind, given that it comes with plenty of features that you are surely going to use on a daily basis. In terms of construction, this model is made of high-quality canvas that’s also waxed for enhanced durability, especially since this makes it resistant to water as well.
This way, you can rest assured that your laptop, other devices, and paperwork is going to be safe even if the weather changes suddenly when you are still out on the street. With this being said, it’s good to note that the manufacturer also took comfort into consideration, since this is one of the major aspects that you need to keep in mind when looking for a good messenger bag.
Therefore, the padded shoulder strap that features a PU leather construction is going to keep you safe from any unwanted shoulder fatigue.
Pros
This VASCHY bag is easy to organize, given that it comes with multiple pockets, out of which some are zippered, and that the main compartment also includes a padded laptop sleeve.
The flap cover can be securely closed using the two buckles that are specially designed to be anti-theft, so even if you are going into crowded places, your belongings are going to be safe.
Thanks to the versatile design, this bag can be used for multiple purposes, from business trips to daily college or work-related activities.
In case you’ve been looking for a great gift idea for a friend, this bag could be the answer, given its fine design and durable construction.
Cons
The bag’s bottom is not padded, so you should make sure that you don’t accidentally drop it on the hard pavement.
The straps are not detachable, so if you would like this feature as well, other messenger bags might be better suited.
10. Nubily Laptop Messenger Bag For Men
One of the things you are going to first notice about this NUBILY bag is the vintage-looking design, that can definitely enhance your overall style. However, there are many other benefits that this bag has to offer, starting with the durable and waterproof construction. You can rest assured that if you decide to give it a try, you won’t have to worry about needing to get a new bag anytime soon.
This bag is made of high-quality materials, the main one being cowhide crazy horse leather, while some of the elements are made of water-resistant waxed canvas, so you can easily tell why you’ll be able to use it for a long time.
The vintage look is rendered by the disordered scratches and wrinkles on its surface, which means that it’s also easier to wear, given that you won’t have to worry about maintaining it scratch-free all the time.
Pros
This bag comes with multiple pockets and compartments that you can use to keep everything organized, given that the total number rises to twelve pockets, five outer and seven inner ones.
The most important part is that the inner and bottom layers are padded, so your laptop is going to be safe from potential damage even in the case of a shock.
The shoulder strap is adjustable for more convenience, and it can also be removed if you want to turn this bag into a briefcase.
The safety aspect was not neglected either, given that this model comes with both zippers and magnetic snaps to keep your belongings protected at all times.
Cons
The fabric is a bit stiff, but this can also be an advantage, depending on your preferences.
The buckle magnets could be a bit stronger, so if you carry more items, you may have to check to make sure they are securely closed.
Our Comprehensive Buying Guide
If you are going through messenger bag reviews looking for the right model for your needs, it’s important to know that there are some aspects that you should keep in mind as you are browsing through the options.
No matter if you are looking for something specific, such as a small messenger bag (also known as a sling bag), or you are simply taking a look around, these products do come with some particularities.
Therefore, it’s a good thing to be aware of them, which is why in the following lines, we’re going to cover the main characteristics that you should take into consideration in order to make sure that you choose the right unit for your needs.
But before we go into details, let’s take a quick look at what exactly a messenger bag is. These items are many times also called courier bags, and they are usually worn across the chest and over one shoulder, using a strap, while the bag itself rests on the lower back. Of course, these were originally used by couriers, but today they are an urban fashion element as well.
Materials
Given that these bags have been around for a while, there are multiple materials that have been and are currently used in the manufacturing process. Of course, each type comes with different benefits and particularities. One option consists of leather, as this is the oldest material used for these bags, and it’s also a highly durable material that offers plenty of benefits.
If you expect a leather messenger bag to last for a long time, you are not mistaken. Moreover, it will also look very well even after extensive use, so if you are thinking about getting one for your own use, you shouldn’t hesitate to do so.
The next alternative in terms of materials used consists of rubber. While looking rather similar to its leather counterpart and it’s waterproof, rubber is not necessarily the most durable choice, as it’s temperature-sensitive.
Nylon is another option, given that it’s both tear and water-resistant, so if you’ve found a bag that you really like and it’s made of Nylon, you can definitely give it a try. Last but not least, canvas is a very popular alternative, given that it’s a thick and sturdy fiber that renders the bag extremely durable.
Canvas is also water-resistant in most cases, as well as lightweight, which makes it an ideal alternative. The great part is that you can find a wide range of cheap messenger bags that are actually excellent for everyday use, and that use canvas as the main material. Besides their sturdiness, these affordable messenger bags also look very stylish in many cases.
Other details
No matter if you are going for a high-end leather messenger bag for men or for a more affordable alternative, you always want to pay attention to closures, as this is a crucial safety aspect. This is especially important if you are a frequent traveler, in which case you should choose a double closure for safety reasons.
Since we’re talking about this in more detail, it’s important to mention that you should go for models that have the main compartment closed with a zipper. If that’s not the case with the men’s messenger bag that you’ve set your eyes on, then you should at least make sure that the flap closure stays securely attached no matter how many items you place inside.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is a messenger bag used for?
These handy items are actually extremely versatile, so they can be used for a wide range of purposes. For instance, if you are looking for an affordable messenger bag to carry all the items that you need to use in class while you are in college, you’ll surely find one that suits your every need.
However, while it’s true that these bags tend to be a piece of urban fashion, this doesn’t mean that they cannot be used for business or traveling purposes as well. In fact, thanks to their generous size, you can fit the necessary items for a short business trip without too much hassle.
Of course, this made them a pretty popular choice among many young professionals. In short, the answer is that messenger bags can be used for pretty much anything you need.
Q: Are messenger bags better than backpacks?
The answer here depends on the user’s preferences and needs. For some, backpacks are actually more versatile, given that they can be used to carry more items, and they are also sometimes more comfortable if you need to walk for longer periods. On the other hand, messenger bags can be easier to use in certain situations, especially in the city.
For instance, if you want to quickly pay for a coffee, then having the wallet within reach in your messenger bag means less hassle on your part than if you would use a backpack.
Plus, let’s face it, it’s also a matter of perception. Backpacks tend to be seen as more casual, whereas messenger bags resemble briefcases more, which is why they are used in professional situations. So, if you are looking for a suitable item that you can use at work, then you may want to start with a good yet cheap messenger bag and see how it works.
Q: How do you put a messenger bag on a motorcycle?
The first option, and the most obvious one, is that you can simply wear the bag while you are riding. However, just as you probably imagine, this is also the least advisable choice, given that you can be hindered, and if you need to quickly react to a road situation, the back might keep you from doing so, or it may make you waste valuable seconds.
With this being said, the alternative would be to check out the measurements as you are reading the messenger bag review and see if it can fit into your bike’s trunk. If not, then you should take a look at other alternatives that can be easily placed in there, because this is the safest alternative. You don’t want to be hindered in any way while riding your motorcycle, and carrying something can have this effect.
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