17 Best Men’s Messenger Bags with Function and Style

Are you in need of a men’s messenger bag? If so then do you know what you should look for when buying one? Here we will give you different models of men’s messenger bags, to help you find the one that works best for you.

There are a lot of choices available for making it harder for you to choose the best messenger bag for your needs. The choices are endless and range from backpacks, briefcases, laptop bags, laptop backpacks, purses, and obviously, the one and only messenger bag for men.

There are a lot of benefits from having a men’s messenger bags like portability, water-resistant capabilities, quick access to your things and they can take a beating compared to the other types of bags.

On the other hand, it also has drawbacks such as its limitation in carrying more stuff, it’s more expensive and you may not feel comfortable with the side strap around your should and neck. Now without further ado, here are the best messenger bags that are trending this year, tested and reviewed by our team.

Best Men’s Messenger Bags Reviews

Are you looking for the most comfortable, comprehensive and spacious messenger bag with a stylish look? If so then have a glance at these best men’s messenger bags that can offer you the best value for your money.

1. Vintage Canvas Messenger Bag

This Vintage Canvas Messenger Bag is our top choice for the best overall messenger bag since it has the capacity to endure daily wear-and-tear. Perfect choice for an adventurous guy who has a busy lifestyle. You can use it for working, traveling, hiking, or any kind of sports. The outside is made of the durable canvas while the inside is built with a sturdy polyester-cotton cloth.

Pros:

• Includes a phone and tablet pocket.
• It comes with numerous zipper pockets.
• The inner compartment also features a keychain holder.
• Its straps are durable and adjustable.
• Very comfortable.

2. Timbuk2 Command Laptop Messenger Bag

This Timbuk2 Command is our second choice for the best messenger bag because it is superior in almost all aspects. It has sublime storage options and marvelous features. Also, it has features that are advantageous to a traveler such as a TSA-friendly laptop compartment and a luggage handle sleeve.

Almost everything in this model is improved, making it one of the most comfortable and fashionable messenger bags. Its laptop protection and pockets are also enhanced. If you are looking for a versatile bag with top-notch features then you can never go wrong with this bag.

Pros:

• It has a stylish look with an excellent organization.
• The strap is adjustable.
• With brilliant laptop features.

Cons:

• It is not completely waterproof.
• There are no flap straps for bigger items.

3. Timbuk2 Classic Men’s Messenger Bag

The Timbuk2 Classic Messenger Bag is a good buy if you are looking for a chic bag with exquisite features. It is waterproof, making it a good choice for a bike commuter. This classic bag is super-sleek and relatively simple with a blend of notable features. It would have been better if it includes a padding on the back and enhanced laptop protection.

Pros:

• It is not costly yet durable and stylish.
• Works best for biking or walking.
• With exemplary storage and shoulder strap.
• It can be customized.

Cons:

• Laptop protection is scanty.
• It is not visible at night.

4. Chrome Buran III Messenger Bag

Chrome Buran III is the best messenger bag for bike commuting. It is very sturdy and has superior features for bike commuters. It has an ultra-thick shoulder strap which can let the bag stay upright while riding. Moreover, the stabilizing strap will make sure that the bag is secured on your back as you make those turns and hops. It is the best waterproof bag, thanks to its massive tarpaulin inner lining.

Pros:

• It feels so comfy especially when biking.
• This bag is very sturdy and has excellent waterproofing capabilities.
• It looks so simple and unique yet very functional.
• The strap is very easy to adjust.

Cons:

• It looks bulky, making it unfavorable for walking.

5. Osprey FlapJack Courier Day Pack Bag

The Osprey FlapJack Courier Day Pack is an affordable men’s messenger bag that you can take to work or coffee shops. It has incomparable organization capacities and other distinguishing features. If you need a messenger bag that can provide supreme protection for your laptop and looks a bit sporty then you can rely on Osprey FlapJack. Although it has special features for biking ideally it is not meant for it.

Pros:

• It has abundant pockets and several organization options.
• It is inexpensive yet to offer exceptional laptop sleeve.
• The shoulder strap is very easy to adjust.

Cons:

• This is not perfect for biking.
• It is not waterproof and does not look stylish.

6. SealLine Urban Shoulder Messenger Bag

The SealLine Urban Shoulder Messenger Bag has sublime features and uses unique construction. The design, fabrics, and sewing methods being used are distinct in almost all areas. You can be assured that all your things inside the bag will not get wet during the rainy days. The shoulder strap can be adjusted with just one hand. However, it does not look stylish and it has inadequate storage and organizational capabilities. Additionally, it does not offer sufficient protection for your laptop. Despite these drawbacks, it is still a nice do-it-all messenger bag.

Pros:

• Uses ingenious fabrics.
• The shoulder strap can be adjusted easily.
• It has excellent waterproof capabilities.

Cons:

• There is insufficient storage for medium-sized items.
• The outer fabric looks bulky and rigid.
• It does not offer excellent laptop protection.

7. Chrome Metropolis Top Messenger Bag

The Chrome Metropolis Messenger Bag is a premium bag for bike commuters but may not be great for other purposes. It is not the best work bag to bring to coffee shops since it lacks some features. For instance, it does not have a laptop sleeve and a carry handle.

However, if you bike every day when going to work then you’ll definitely admire its modernized features. You will never feel uncomfortable while riding your bike. This 40 liters bag can carry almost anything.

Pros:

• It is large enough to store all your belongings.
• It has a simple design with excellent waterproof capabilities.
• This bag has a secret pocket for storing your money.
• It does not make you feel uncomfortable while riding your bike.

Cons:

• It looks bulky.
• This bag has no laptop compartment.

8. Plambag Canvas Messenger Bag

The Plambag Canvas Messenger Bag is only ideal for short-distance travel. For instance, to and from your car. It is not best for bike commuters since the shoulder strap is tough to adjust. Its laptop protection is quite good but does not offer excellent water-resistant capabilities. This bag can be a nice substitute for your briefcase but don’t use it on rainy days.

Pros:

• It provides excellent protection for your laptop.
• No worries if you are left-handed or right-handed because it works in both ways.
• With conspicuous reflective strip.

Cons:

• Water-resistant capability is insufficient.
• The shoulder strap is hard to adjust.
• It is very small, hence it is not sufficient if you are carrying a lot of stuff.

9. Samsonite Colombian Leather Messenger Bag

The Samsonite Colombian Leather Messenger Bag is loaded with ample features, making it a fantastic choice for a traveler. Whilst it may not be the best all-around messenger bag, but it offers an excellent blend of features. It is not well-suited for bike commuters since it’s shoulder strap is difficult to adjust and it is not too comfy. This bag has a medium size of 20 liters and has the best compartment for your laptop.

Pros:

• It offers the best protection for your laptop.
• This bag has a secret travel pocket.
• It is perfect for traveling since it includes a luggage handle sleeve.

Cons:

• Waterproofing capabilities are not very effective.
• It is not very fashionable.
• The shoulder strap is not comfy and it’s very hard to adjust.

10. Manhattan Portage NY Affordable Messenger Bag

The Manhattan Portage NY messenger bag is classy and is capable of carrying all your stuff all year long. It has an urban appeal, making it a perfect match for your style. The bad news is it does not include a laptop compartment and its waterproof capabilities are not superlative. It is not capable of compressing your stuff even if you only need to carry a few things.

Pros:

• It is lightweight.
• This bag has an attractive urban style.

Cons:

• This bag is not waterproof.
• The shoulder strap does not include padding.
• There is no laptop sleeve.

11. Kenneth Cole Reaction Expandable Messenger Bag

The Kenneth Cole is not only a famous brand for men’s fashion but they also create phenomenal messenger bags. It is made of high-quality Nappa leather. It can store small items safely since it has a full-length zipper pocket beneath the front flap. Since it is an expandable bag then it is capable of storing a 15.4” laptop. The interior portion has several small pockets as well as a cell phone pocket. Want to step out in style? Then always carry a Kenneth Cole Reaction Messenger Bag with you.

Pros:

• You will enjoy the soft feel of the leather.
• It has a classic color that can be matched to almost anything.

12. Men’s Leather Cheap Messenger Satchel Bag

This Men’s Leather Messenger Satchel is a cheap men’s messenger bag that is multi-purpose. It is ideal for college students who want to look cool. At the same time, it is also ideal for professionals who are looking for a bag with a touch of class. It is created from high-quality brown goatskin. It comes with a magnetic enclosure to keep all your things safe.

Pros:

• It has a bigger interior compartment for storing your laptop.
• The small inner pockets and zip pockets are great for storing your pens and other smaller items.

13. Gootium Vintage Canvas Men’s Messenger Bag

The Gootium Vintage Canvas Messenger Bag is the top men’s messenger bag since it is very handy and light too! You can guarantee that it can last longer. It is the best bag for school and work. It looks casual yet its also great for any business purposes. This bag is fabricated from the finest leather and canvas, making it look fabulous.

Pros:

• It is capable of storing a 14.5” laptop in the main compartment as well as an 11.6” laptop in the padded compartment.
• This bag provides you with comfort, style, and convenience.

14. Kattee Vintage Briefcase Men’s Messenger Bag

The Kattee Vintage Briefcase Messenger Bag is the best men’s messenger bag that is created from genuine bull-hide leather, making it durable and long-lasting. The front flap is fastened with a buckle. The main compartment is sealed with a zipper and it contains ample pockets for storing small items as well as your cell phone.

Pros:

• It has a sturdy carry handle.
• The shoulder strap is adjustable and detachable too.
• It can store your 14” laptop.

Different Styles of Men’s Messenger Bags

Men’s messenger bags are actually bigger than your purse and it has a single strap. Generally, there are two styles to choose from, these are the messenger style and the briefcase-style. The messenger style bags are efficient for the bikers since they can sit higher on the back.

Simply put, it has an ultra-comfortable strap, lesser pockets can carry more stuff and have an instant release buckle. Whilst the briefcase-style messenger bags consist of laptop sleeves, more storage pockets, back panels, and a solid handle. It has stronger straps which are mainly created for walking. It sits comfortably on the lower hip. You can easily recognize the difference between the two just by observing the strap design.

Messenger bags have angled straps and it sits a bit higher on your back. Moreover, the briefcase-style messenger bags have vertical straps and sit close to your waist. If you go to work every day then this is the perfect bag for you since it is exceptional for walking and for carrying your office essentials. This is much cozier and more versatile than choosing a briefcase.

Messenger Bag Uses and Functionality

So many things you can do and carry around in your messenger bag. Below our reader’s and team’s favorite functionalities of a messenger bag compared to other bags like the weekend bag or cross-body bag.

A great mobile office organizer

If you are working remotely then most likely you will be visiting coffee shops and other places. This bag can organize all your things effectively so that you can quickly access them. Obviously, you want a bag that has a laptop sleeve along with big pockets for your power supply. The pen and pencils slots are very valuable too. Most importantly, your papers will not get crumpled. Some bags have a separate pocket mainly for documents.

A stable bag for the bike commuter

A messenger bag will carry your stuff while you are commuting with your bike. You may not require a bag that has a laptop sleeve. However, make sure that the bag can carry your stuff well and makes you feel comfortable. It would be great if the bag is waterproof. Always examine the straps and make sure that it can be easily adjusted using your one hand. It must have superior padding so that you won’t hurt your shoulder. The straps must be easy to tighten and take off when needed.

Look for a bag with an incredible stabilization strap. There are two designs to choose from, a strap that is placed perpendicularly (T-strap) and a strap that is placed across the body which is similar to a hip belt. Your decision will depend on your personal preference. We recommend the hip belt style since it can take the weight off your shoulder and at the same time it can keep your bag secure. If you feel uncomfortable with it then select the T-strap.

The safest bag for a persistent traveler

A messenger bag can be very handy for your personal belongings especially if you are a frequent traveler. Look for a durable bag yet looks classy. One that can let you organize your things nicely and protects your laptop/tablet. Having the best security is also an added advantage. For instance, a bag with a peerless stabilizing strap can prevent your bag from being stolen. Whilst a bag with lesser pockets on the outside can prevent pickpocket incidents. Some bags have secret pockets which are great for hiding your money.

The best companion of a student

A messenger bag is also very useful for a student who is always carrying books every day. Choose a bag with ample storage and makes you feel cozy. It would be nice if it has a laptop sleeve and a compartment for keeping your papers safe.

A classy bag for the professional

Messenger bags with Velcro silencer strips are magnificent for a professional like you. With a soft handle, it’s just like you are carrying a briefcase.

Aside from having a laptop sleeve and a compartment for your documents, it would be nice if it has extra space for storing your extra clothes.

Messenger Bag Buying Guide

Below you’ll find the points to consider when getting a new messenger bag. Still have questions? Feel free to leave a comment below and we’ll answer it in 48 hours!

Messenger Bag Shoulder Straps

It is severely important to look for a bag with a padded shoulder strap. You’ll have to determine if you’re going to use it for biking or for walking. Adjustability is also another important factor. It must be easy to adjust while you’re on the go. If you are a bike commuter then choose a strap that can be tightened and loosened with one hand only.

Stabilizer Strap for your Bags

The purpose of a stabilizing strap is to prevent the bag from swinging around especially when you are biking. Although, some people do not feel comfortable with stabilizer straps particularly when they are walking. These straps will be joined across your hips, stomach or to the shoulder strap of your bag.

Waterproof Capability of a Men’s Messenger Bags

If the flap of your messenger bag is waterproof then water may enter at the edge of the flap. Choose bags that consist of wings that can cover this breach. The best weather resistant bags are using fully waterproof fabrics along with superior corner wings. Having a bag that is properly sealed can make you feel secure. Also, take into account that outside pockets are very hard to protect.

Flap Closure

Most bags are using plastic buckles. These are great since it is simpler and quicker. The downside is it’s harder to use with one hand only. Pickpockets can easily steal your belongings since it is easier to unclip. Another type of flap closure is hooks. It is quicker and easier to open even if you are wearing your bag. Once more, be very careful of thieves if you are in a crowded place.

Messenger Bag for Men Pockets and Function

Different men’s messenger bags vary in their number of pockets. A simple messenger bag may consist only of one main compartment. Pockets come in different shapes and sizes. The number of pockets that you require will rely on the things that you will store in the bag.

Flap pockets are excellent for storing small items while the main compartment is used for storing larger stuff. Documents can be safer if placed in the back pouches.

Laptop Sleeve in your Messenger Bag

If you are always carrying your laptop with you than a bag with a laptop compartment is a must. Furthermore, we highly endorse a floating laptop sleeve that is sewn to a back panel in order to keep your laptop off the ground. It is also advisable to look for a compartment with thick padding so that your laptop will not get damaged in case of any untoward incidents.

Choosing your next Messenger Bag

Shopping for the best men’s messenger bag can be overwhelming. However, it just comes down to two essential factors and these are space and style. Be sure to choose a bag that has enough space to hold all your things including your laptop. After having the right size, check its appearance if it fits your style.

We hope that these reviews of the best men’s messenger bags have helped you in making a smarter purchasing decision. To look more stylish, never leave your house without your precious watch. For Jessica Biel, there’s no harm in flaunting a limited edition Louis Vuitton bag and cute makeup bags while walking in the street.