The best messenger bag for modern professionals’ travel (2025)

Compare the top 5 Messenger bags
Honorable Kubuka
Courtesy of rothco
Rothco Classic Canvas Messenger Bag For $33: Made from simple, humble canvas, with just three pockets and a zipped pocket, this messenger bag is as straightforward as they come. It is inexpensive and inexpensive, and it will last you quite a long time. I’ve had one since 2006, and while the color has faded, there are no holes or rips. Even though I settle for expensive bags, I tend to choose these because they are not organized, and when you carry a light load, it is very small and light. It’s not a good choice if you need something water-resistant, though, as canvas soaks up water like a sponge.
Billingham Hadley Pro Camera Bag for $330: Billingham bags have something of a reputation among photographers. These slick and stylish shoulder bags are famous for their durability, secure style, and lifetime warranties. It’s not just cameras, though. Hadeley 2020, in particular, is a well-made midsize bag that can easily fit a 15-inch laptop, as well as other essentials. It features two front pockets and a water-resistant exterior for durability. For more camera bags, read our guide.
Peak Design field Pout V2 for $50: This compact organizer excels in its role as a small everyday carry bag for several reasons. First, it’s weatherproof and waterproof even when you’re out in a rainstorm. Second, the horizontal profile and slim profile make it a surprisingly wide but low-profile bag to carry. It’s big enough for a smartphone, camera bag, and small camera, and comes with Peak Design’s signature Seatbelt-Fast
Courtesy of Savage Industries
Two Savate EDC kits for $160: I was a fan of Savage Industries’ Edc, but even I had to admit it was too big and sharp for me. After that EDC came out two. This is actually a smaller version of the Original, which makes it more comfier to wear for a long time (even if it’s stuffed in a farmer’s market bin). The TOP opens like an old doctor’s bag, revealing the entire interior, so you’ll never have to dig around for things.
The lining of the black version of the bag is a beautiful bright orange that makes it easy to see any small items that might get lost in the shuffle. Its generous size and tough, functional design make it a great choice for makers, or for anyone who needs a hybrid toolbox and shoulder bag.
Waterfield Designs Back Shinjuku Messenger For $229: Waterfield’s Shinjuku Messenger Bag was designed with the iPad in mind, and it shows. The interior pocket is the size of an iPad Pro 11 with a small storage compartment, offers a central pocket, and features a LID flap for pocket closure. What makes it a great iPad case, however, is its size. It’s not just small – there are many cases that are small and can fit an iPad – but this one gives your iPad room to breathe without feeling over- or under.
Small bags can feel strong with the iPad installed there and other accessories such as power cord, apple pencil, phone and other daily items. Some may feel too bulky, as your iPad swims inside a large bag that feels like a pain to carry with you everywhere. The canvas option uses the x11 fabric from X-PAC, a high-tech canvas with an internal structure and pfas-free water resistance. It’s durable, water-resistant, and surprisingly durable. It held up in heavy heastle rain and kept everything inside nice and dry.
Mission Workshop Khyte for $400: It’s a staple in today’s messenger bag. Designed to be completely waterproof, KHYTE is made for heavy duty use. The inner pockets are accurate and expandable; Every time I thought I couldn’t fit more things in it, I found more room and pockets. This backpack is basically a hiking backpack. It can carry anything and stay dry at the same time. There is a lot of style to go with the item.
The outer closure is magnetized and restricted safely and easily, the area, and supports the mission system of arkiv, so if you don’t have enough pockets and spoons, you can always add more. The KHYTE is not the kind of bag you throw a tablet in and carry a cafe. It’s the kind you bring when cycling works in a rainstorm. (Note: This product is currently out of stock, but returns are possible.)
Filson Chocolate Messenger Bag for $195: Filson is a Seattle-based manufacturer of outdoor clothing and gear known for its durability – the company’s roots are in the Klondike Gold Rush. This bag has a traditional look with its camel color, but it is made from rug-rugged 500d water resistant and wax resistant Inside, you will find two areas separated by a layer filled with thin foam and two pockets ready to hold a phone or paper. On the front, you have two zippered pockets with dividers. This is a sensible bag and, thanks to the waxed canvas, it is water resistant enough not to worry about heavy rain. I love the look of the Hunter-Orange Front Panel and the leather zipper pulls. (Note: This product is currently out of stock, but returns are possible.) -Martin Cizmar
How Messenger and CrossBhord wallets are tested
We reviewed both classics and new models, considering various aspects such as volume, comfort and sustainability. Based on our selection of real-world tests, we tested each one over a period of at least four weeks, and in some cases, several months. We pack each bag with a variety of gear, including work essentials, food, and camera equipment. We also tested their durability under various conditions and weather conditions, such as walking in the rain in Portland, Oregon, walking in the snow in Chicago, and enduring the heat under New York. Since organization is important, we made sure that each bag was easy to use and pack.
- Comfort: Messenger bags are designed for riders, so we prioritize their comfort by evaluating weight distribution and strap comfort.
- Design: When it comes to design, we pay attention to small details, such as the inner fabric that helps you see what’s inside, the placement of the pocket, and the strong zippers. We also looked closely at the length of the handles and straps, as well as the overall shape of the bag.
- Materials: It means to be a strong fund, we prioritize quality and sustainability. We’ve verified a variety of fabrics in a variety of styles and featured brands that prioritize environmental care.
- Price: We made sure the quality matches the price you pay, testing it against the competition.
What did we test next?
Power with unlimited access to the cable. Get best-in-class reporting and exclusive subscription content that’s too important to miss. Register today.



