22 Best Work Bags for the Office and Beyond
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For those who are begrudgingly heading back to the office after a nice long holiday break: We found some of the best work bags to bring along with you. You didn’t need a hefty tote when you were “commuting” from, say, your bed to your kitchen table, but you might need one now that you’re lugging your laptop, chargers, lunch, extra sneakers, and multiple lip balms.
The Most Stylish Work Bag
Everlane Italian Leather Studio Bag
Your favorite brand made the perfect work bag.
The Best Affordable Work Bag
Hoxis Minimalist Faux Leather Tote
Your eyes are not deceiving you: This really does cost only $18. It just looks much more expensive because of the understated design and pretty light-blue hue.
The Closet Staple
Cuyana Classic Easy Tote
Say hello to the basic work bag you can always rely on. The Cuyana Classic Easy Tote is spacious, versatile, lightweight, comfortable (thanks to the unique double handle), and available in nine different colors. It is designed to be your “everyday companion” for years to come.
The Best Classic Black Work Bag
Cuyana Classic Structured Leather Tote
You can’t go wrong with a basic black tote that’s big enough to fit everything from your laptop to a change of shoes.
The Most Comfortable Tote Bag
Harper The Everyday Crossbody
For me, an absolute no-no when it comes to work bags is an uncomfortable strap that digs into my shoulder blade while I’m commuting. By the time I finally make it to my desk, I’m in pain! Enter the Everyday Crossbody by Harper. It features an extra-long and extra-thick strap that can be worn as is or tied in a variety of different ways to achieve maximum comfort and functionality. Also, the minimalist, chrome-free design will go with everything in your closet.
The Best Work Bag with a Zipper
Madewell the Zip-Top Transport Tote
The brand’s aptly named Transport tote is a perennial favorite, and for good reason — it’s soft, lightweight, and looks just as good after years of wear and tear.
The Best Work Bag for Organization
ZTUJO Purse Organizer Insert
Yes, your accessories need accessories. If you frequently change your bags because you’ve decided that any bag can become a work bag, this insert will make your life easier and will add storage space that even the roomiest totes don’t have.
For Phoebe Philo Fans
BOSTANTEN Leather Designer Shoulder Bucket Bag
And if you were into Philo’s bucket bag, here’s a similar version that’s under $100.
If You Want Something Slightly Trendy
Mantobruce Leather Handbag
With plenty of compartments, you’ll be able to find your keys and wallet quickly. And the line of studs up the side keep it from feeling too dull.
The Most Spacious Work Bag
The Packable Carryall
This can fold down into the tiniest zip pouch, but when you take it out, boy, does it really expand. You can fit everything from extra clothes, sneakers, your laptop, and quite possibly your medium-size Labradoodle if your office is dog friendly. It’s also made of durable nylon and has interior pockets to keep you organized.
The Best Everyday Tote
Marc Jacobs Traveler Canvas Tote
The best of both worlds: the luxury of a designer tote, without breaking the bank. And this one doubles as the perfect travel carry-on when you take your PTO.
If You’re Picky About Leather
Fossil Jolie Hobo
Fossil is known for its soft and luxurious leather.
The Best Classic Tote
Rebecca Minkoff Megan Leather Tote
In case you don’t need another black bag, this classic silhouette is available in two shades that are understated enough to wear with everything. The tote features a few cool accents, like the lock hardware, so it’s not too plain.
The Artsy One
Rag & Bone Addison Plaid Carryall Tote
Practical doesn’t have to be boring. If you prefer prints, this plaid carryall is the one for you. It also has an interior pouch and folds completely flat for travel.
The Bold Option
Poppy Lissiman Lio Tote
If your office is a fashionable place full of very cool people (à la New York Magazine), you should absolutely dress to impress and choose a tote bag that shows off your personality. This Poppy Lissiman one, which features the work of artist John Prince Siddon, will make even your most boring office outfit feel more fashion-forward.
The Best Recycled Option
Ganni Banner Recycled Leather Medium Tote
This very cool tote from Ganni features an adjustable strap so you can make it a cross-body bag.
The One You’ll Use on Weekends Too
Kaan Bucket Tote
Durable and waterproof, this tote is the perfect size for all your essentials during the work week and everything you might need on the weekends too. You don’t have to worry about forgetting your shopping bags during your next farmers’ market run.
The Shiny Option
Paloma Wool no 1002 / Caye
Available in four different colors, this shiny, boxy bag has a vintage look. Not only does it fit your laptop, but there’s also space on the outside to secure your yoga mat for post-work classes. Remember those? It is so beloved that is currently on a wait list, but trust it it’s worth the wait.
The Vegan-Leather Option
Santos by Mónica Dolores Square Tote
Made of cactus fibers, this vegan-leather tote is made to order and with New Yorkers in mind. The bag will comfortably fit your laptop and other work necessities while hopefully not sliding off your shoulder on the subway. Yes, it’s $15 over budget, but considering how it’s made and that you’re supporting an up-and-coming designer, it’s well worth it.
The Monogrammed One
Tory Burch Ever-Ready Zip Tote
Tory Burch has been infiltrating our closets, so it comes to no surprise we’re including it in this roundup, too. This monogrammed tote has a spacious interior and a zip to conceal all your essentials. Plus it’s available in five colorways, so one is bound to match your style.
The Best Work Bag for Traveling
Beis The Work Tote
Yes, Béis’s work tote is just as good as its weekender bag. Shocker! Available in five colorways, this tote marries fashion and function. It’s spacious enough for your laptop and water bottle and has a trolley pass-through so you can slide it on your carry-on.
The Unconventional One
AllSaints Allington Straw Tote
Granted, this isn’t a bag you can throw around at the end of your long work day since the straw material is more delicate than your typical leather or nylon work totes. However, given it’s extra-large size, you can fit everything you need to get the job done and then some. Plus it doubles as a statement piece when you pair it with all your work-friendly blazers and trousers.