The Top 20 Best Work Bags You Should Consider

Best Organizational Features

A work bag can sometimes feel like a black hole, making it tricky to find your keys, wallet, and other essentials. If you often struggle with organization, a bag with compartments might be just what you need. These bags feature various interior pockets—some zippered, some not—to help you keep things in order. Many also include exterior pockets for storing smaller items and even your water bottle.

The Nubily Laptop Bag is a standout on our list, offering a padded laptop compartment, two large open pockets, one large zippered pocket, and several smaller interior pockets. It’s structured to stand upright on its own, preventing it from collapsing. For those seeking a versatile bag that’s perfect for both work and travel, the MZ Wallace Deluxe Tote is a great option. This pick is light enough to carry even when packed full, boasting a total of 11 pockets. And let’s not overlook the Freja Paloma Tote, which features a unique shortened zipper track that doubles as a convenient cup holder, allowing you easy access to your water bottle without unzipping the whole bag.

Best Single Compartment Option

While compartments can help with organization, they can also be restricting, preventing you from carrying larger items (like a spare pair of heels). If you're looking for extra space, single-compartment bags offer more flexibility. For those who still crave some form of organization, consider throwing in a colorful pouch, like the Kusshi 2pc Neoprene On-the-Go Pouch Set, to help keep track of smaller items.

Despite its lack of compartments, the Long Champ Le Pliage Nylon Shoulder Tote's small size makes it manageable enough to find your essentials quickly. Plus, it's foldable design makes it portable and perfect for packing in carry-on luggage. For a simple yet practical option, Madewell's The Transport Tote checks all the boxes: versatile, spacious, and stylish. You can even personalize it with your initials.

Most Adaptable

Who says your work bag can’t double as a weekender bag? You need a bag that’s ideal not just for the office, but for all the different facets of your work life—whether that’s team meetings, happy hours, or beyond.

Out of all the bags we’ve reviewed, the Cuyana Tall Easy Tote stands out as one of the most adaptable. With its sleek, tall design, this bag pairs effortlessly with nearly any outfit and works for any occasion. It’s customizable too, available in various sizes (small, classic, and tall), styles (zippered or open), and eight colors.

Convertible bags offer even more versatility, providing the best of both worlds with their ability to change shapes. For example, the M.Gemi Laura Convertible Backpack can easily switch between a tote and a backpack, while the Francine Collection Laptop Roller features optional wheels—perfect for those long commutes. Another great option is the Béis Work Tote, which includes a removable and adjustable shoulder strap, allowing you to quickly convert it from a shoulder bag to a crossbody bag.

Top Backpacks

If you suffer from back pain or just can’t stand the discomfort of a thin strap digging into your shoulder, it may be time to switch your tote for a backpack. Backpacks distribute the weight evenly across your neck and shoulders, providing a more comfortable, ergonomic option. While many backpacks might feel too casual for work, we’ve found stylish, professional, and comfortable choices.

Dagne Dover has become a go-to brand for quality bags, and its classic backpack will quickly become an essential part of your workday. Made from the brand’s signature neoprene, it’s both water-resistant and durable. It’s also spacious, with a 16-inch laptop sleeve, a luggage sleeve, and a cup holder to keep your coffee handy. For a sleeker, smaller option, consider the Calpak Kaya Laptop Backpack, which offers a 15-inch padded laptop sleeve and a convenient luggage trolley for travel.

Most Fashionable

Though your wardrobe may change day by day, your work bag is a staple part of your outfit. The great news, as Teich points out, is that you don't need to compromise on style for practicality. From a variety of materials and colors to choose from, your work bag can be a great representation of your personality. Whether you lean toward classic leather or prefer a bold nylon bag, there are endless stylish options to explore.

With its unique textured appearance, the Sol and Selene Sky's the Limit Tote manages to double as both a chic purse and a functional work bag. Even with its single main compartment, this bag includes a detachable zipper pouch for storing essentials like keys and IDs. If you're seeking a more luxurious option, consider Cole Haan's Essential Soft Leather Tote, made of premium soft pebbled leather that gives it the appearance of an everyday bag, rather than a typical work accessory.

How to Choose the Perfect Work Bag Like a Pro

Material Choice

Teich suggests that leather work bags exude a more professional vibe in a corporate setting. 'Leather just has a certain level of quality and polish compared to canvas or nylon,' she explains. 'Not that those bags are inferior, but they don’t give off the same refined impression.' However, leather can come with a hefty price tag, so if you're looking for a more affordable alternative, faux leather mimics that high-end look but at a lower cost. Keep in mind though, faux leather tends to wear out faster and may not be as durable as the real thing. For eco-conscious shoppers, Teich recommends looking for vintage, pre-owned, or sustainably sourced options that use vegetable-tanned dyes.

Beyond leather, faux leather has its competitors. Canvas totes, for example, provide a lightweight, casual aesthetic and are easy to maintain as they’re typically washable. However, this relaxed vibe might be too informal depending on your office culture.

If canvas isn’t your thing, consider nylon, which is another affordable yet durable option. It’s waterproof, so you won’t have to worry about your belongings getting soaked on a rainy day. However, while the nylon fabric is resistant to tears, it does have a slightly coarser texture and tends to have a sportier look.

Closure Options

Work bags come in a variety of closure types, such as open tops, zippers, and magnetic fasteners. According to Teich, there’s no single 'best' closure style; it largely depends on individual preference.

Open-top bags provide the greatest convenience, making it easy to grab items quickly without dealing with zippers or buckles. For those traveling on public transportation, Teich recommends a zipper closure to keep your belongings secure and prevent them from spilling or being stolen by pickpockets. Magnetic closures strike a balance, offering both ease of access and added security. However, if you tend to overstuff your bag, magnetic closures may not always stay shut.

Bag Size

When selecting the right size for your work bag, think about the purpose it will serve. If you have a dedicated desk and office space where you can leave personal items, a smaller bag might be all you need. A compact bag not only lightens the load on your shoulder, but it’s also more practical for crowded commutes and shorter days at the office.

On the other hand, if you travel frequently for work or tend to overpack, you may prefer a larger bag. If you like to keep an extra sweater for chilly office air conditioning or add a pair of heels for after work, a bigger bag will easily accommodate those extras.

When it comes to dimensions, don’t forget to consider your laptop size. Many work bags specify whether they fit a 13 or 15-inch laptop, so check these measurements against your device. Another important factor is handle drop length. Shorter drops are perfect for carrying by hand or on your elbow, while longer drops are ideal for wearing the bag on your shoulder—especially when layered up with a puffer coat during winter.

Frequently Asked Questions

Should I choose a backpack or a tote bag for work?

Still deciding between a backpack or a tote bag? The choice is often based on personal preference. Backpacks offer better ergonomics by distributing the bag’s weight evenly across both shoulders. While tote bags may not be as comfortable, they are often considered more polished and professional-looking.

If you lean toward a backpack, Teich suggests opting for one made from higher-end materials instead of the canvas or nylon you might have used during school days. 'I’m a fan of convertible backpacks that can switch from a backpack to a tote, offering versatility so you don’t feel like you’re carrying a school bag into the office,' says Teich. If you’re considering a convertible, we recommend the M.Gemi Laura Convertible Backpack.

How can I keep my work bag organized?

Most backpacks and tote bags come equipped with a variety of zippered and slip pockets to help separate your belongings. Outer zip compartments are especially handy for stashing essentials that you may need to grab quickly. We recommend using these for your most important items, while keeping your frequently used items within easy reach.

If you prefer a simpler, more minimalist bag, there are still ways to stay organized. Tote bag organizer inserts can create compartments in unstructured bags, or you could opt for a colorful pouch (such as a makeup bag) to store your essentials. A bright pouch can make it easy to locate your items quickly, even in a dark bag.

Trust Us on This

This article was penned by Jamie Fischer, a writer for Mytour. To create this list, she conducted research on the best work bags for women and consulted with Liz Teich, @TheNewYorkStylist, to learn about the key features of a great work bag. Teich, who has 15 years of experience as a commercial stylist, has collaborated with various brands, retailers, and editorial teams to create photoshoot concepts. She later pivoted to a personal styling career, where she launched a closet refresh service to teach people how to style their existing wardrobe.