The Greatest Messenger Baggage of 2024

Extra sensible than a tote bag and extra accessible than a backpack, the very best messenger baggage proceed to be our alternative for each day carry. We all know it may be overwhelming to have so many various baggage for various functions, and whereas every of those has a time and a spot, the messenger bag combines the very best of many.

Our skilled gear testers have accomplished all of the legwork for you, and have recognized 10 of the very best messenger baggage available on the market right this moment and totally examined them for this information. Whether or not you’re aiming for a lifetime buy just like the top-pick Timbuk2 Traditional or simply want one thing to get you thru the following semester, just like the Carhartt Messenger Bag, we’ve received choices for everybody.

We’ve reviewed these baggage for over a yr now, from the small city of Bishop, Calif., to commutes within the huge metropolis of Los Angeles. We took every of them out on a number of bike rides, loaded them up and walked with them a mile to the native espresso store, and scrutinized the strengths and weaknesses of their organizational options that can assist you determine which bag would possibly finest fit your wants. 

Editor’s Word: We up to date our Messenger Baggage information on November 21, 2024, to refine our Value & Worth part and add extra testing suggestions from continued use.

The Greatest Messenger Baggage of 2024

Different Shoulder Baggage to Carry Your Package

Our high picks in messenger baggage are those we lean on essentially the most for our bike commuting, however there are lots available on the market that do it nearly as nicely. Whereas they aren’t our high picks, the next 4 packs are wonderful choices to contemplate.

Messenger Bag Comparability Chart

How We Examined the Greatest Messenger Baggage

Our Professional Testers

Our GearJunkie testers are avid commuters, with a long time of mixed expertise touring by way of bike, prepare, bus, and airplane. From town streets of Los Angeles to the mountain city of Bishop, California, our testers have lined numerous floor with these messenger baggage and know what to search for in a very good one. 

From flying incessantly across the nation for work, to biking each day to espresso retailers in her small city, our lead tester, Miya Tsudome, has had over 20 years of hands-on expertise with messenger baggage, her go-to alternative from school till now. She makes use of a messenger bag for her each day carry and in addition has a messenger bag for her images tools.

Our Testing Course of and Testing Grounds

Miya examined this fleet of baggage over the course of a month, ensuring to hold every with a full load for a motorcycle commute of 4 miles roundtrip, walked to many espresso retailers and ran errands round city, and punctiliously evaluated their group, weatherproofing capabilities, and high quality of their design. 

Although nobody bag “has all of it,” there are lots of high-quality baggage to select from, and a few that will suit your wants higher than others. Are you in search of a basic messenger bag to tackle a motorcycle commute? Or a extra informal shoulder bag for taking the prepare to the workplace? Are you in search of one thing glossy sufficient for the workplace or rugged sufficient to face as much as some climate?

It’s price contemplating how massive your laptop computer is and ensuring the bag you select is appropriate. Additionally, contemplate the final quantity of the bag relying on how a lot you propose to hold. And in case you are the kind to pack lots, possibly contemplate a backpack so that you don’t damage your shoulders.

Purchaser’s Information: Methods to Select a Messenger Bag

Consolation

Consolation is a crucial metric when evaluating a bag that you just’ll probably be carrying lots — from dwelling to workplace, by airports and prepare commutes, and past. The most important indicator of a bag’s consolation is within the development of its strap and its carry type. In case you’re after a pack that’s in it for extra of the lengthy haul, take a look at our Greatest Journey Backpacks information.

Carry Model

Historically, a messenger bag is supposed to be carried in a crossbody type. With roots in bike messenger journey, these baggage have straps that can sling over one shoulder with the bag oriented diagonally throughout your again. This enables the bag to remain nearer to your middle of gravity whereas using, and received’t get in the best way, very like a backpack.

The Timbuk2 Traditional, Osprey Metron 18, Mission Workshop Monty, and Mission Workshop Khyte are examples of this basic messenger bag carry type. We expect that this carry type is conducive to extra consolation, as they usually have bigger, padded straps and the diagonal orientation excessive up in your torso offers higher weight distribution and is much less prone to trigger sore shoulders.

The opposite carry type is a daily shoulder strap that causes a bag to fall on the hips. You may put on these baggage crossbody in fact, however the bag will keep in a horizontal place decrease in your torso. Examples of this are the Timbuk2 Nearer Laptop computer Briefcase, Peak Design On a regular basis Messenger, and Aer Commuter Tech Temporary.

Some of us might not need the extra specialised look of the normal messenger bag and go for this extra informal shoulder strap type of carrying. When loaded up, nevertheless, these baggage can get heavy and aren’t as conducive to bike using. They’ll additionally swing round in your again extra and trigger strain factors in your shoulders. The Topo Designs Mountain Cross Bag comes with two straps, so you may select your most popular carry technique. 

Shoulder Straps

Shoulder straps are an apparent element of the consolation class, and may actually make or break an expertise with a messenger bag. WE admire wider, thicker straps with ample padding to supply cushion and assist distribute weight extra evenly.

The Mission Workshop Monty has essentially the most snug shoulder straps we examined, with an non-obligatory sternum strap and a really satisfying, quick-adjust aluminum buckle on the entrance of the strap. As compared, the Mission Workshop Khyte has a lesser high quality strap, although you may change it out with the Deluxe Messenger Strap for an extra $50. The Timbuk2 Traditional isn’t overbuilt in any approach and has a easy shoulder strap made with OrthoLite foam. 

Group and Measurement

With regards to messenger baggage, measurement issues. Too huge, and also you’ll overload it with stuff and need you’d purchased a backpack as a substitute. Too small and also you’ll be bummed when it received’t match a lot else apart from your laptop computer. The entire baggage in our overview are between 10 and 24 L. The utility of a messenger bag, apart from only a assertion of favor, is for fast entry to the inside by swinging it in entrance of the physique. So it needs to be considerably small and nimble. 

Group can be paramount, as you don’t need your small objects to get misplaced inside a cavernous primary compartment. And the very best messenger baggage can have some considerate organizational elements that can assist you keep in mind the place the whole lot is. 

When choosing a messenger bag, particularly if group is a precedence for you, listed below are some essential options you would possibly need to contemplate:

A number of compartments: Search for a bag with a number of compartments of assorted sizes. This lets you separate and manage your belongings effectively, stopping objects from getting misplaced or tangled.

Padded laptop computer compartment or sleeve: In case you carry a laptop computer or pill, a padded compartment is essential to guard your gadget from bumps and scratches. You’ll need to make sure that the compartment is appropriately sized to accommodate your gadget. Most messenger baggage will match smaller laptops of 11-14”, however you’ll have to verify to double-check the size if in case you have a much bigger mannequin. And when you’re on the fence about shopping for a messenger bag to hold your tech round, take a look at our overview of laptop computer backpacks which may make for a extra snug carrying expertise. 

Inside Pockets and Sleeves: Inside pockets and sleeves are nice for organizing smaller objects like pens, keys, and chargers. They maintain these necessities simply accessible whereas stopping them from cluttering up the principle compartment as a result of there’s nothing worse than your keys getting twisted up in your charging cables. 

Exterior Pockets: Exterior pockets are helpful for objects you want fast entry to, reminiscent of your telephone, pockets, or water bottle. Search for pockets with safe closures like zippers or magnetic snaps to maintain your belongings protected, or stretch pockets to accommodate an umbrella or water bottle. 

Key Clip or Key Ring: A key clip or ring contained in the bag offers a chosen spot to connect your keys, stopping them from getting misplaced within the backside of the bag. 

Electronics Safety

Whereas what you carry round in your messenger bag will differ from individual to individual, it’s greater than probably that you just’ll be carrying round some electronics. Most messenger baggage will include some type of a laptop computer sleeve or devoted compartment. It’s sensible to search for ones which have padding for extra safety, like within the Aer Commuter Tech Temporary or the Topo Designs Mountain Cross Bag. 

The Mission Workshop Khyte has a devoted waterproof laptop computer sleeve which offers some critical safety in case you get caught in some inclement climate in your commute. And we love that the Osprey Metron 18 additionally comes with a rain cowl to actually carry you peace of thoughts whilst you’re out and about. 

The Mission Workshop Monty is the one bag in our lineup that doesn’t include a devoted laptop computer compartment, which is unlucky. Although it’s an general well-constructed and rugged bag that can maintain your objects protected below its heavy-duty flap, and can simply require you to have your laptop computer in a sleeve already.

We additionally want that the Peak Design On a regular basis Messenger got here with some climate safety as a result of it’s meant to carry a number of lenses and cameras, and will thus undoubtedly use a rain cowl or a beefier lid system. Although, we additionally rounded up a number of the finest digicam baggage when you’re seeking to examine this particular sort of bag.

Design and Supplies

While you’re in search of your subsequent messenger bag, be certain that to take a look at the supplies and general high quality to make sure you’re getting one thing that’ll final. Nylon and polyester are light-weight and maintain up nicely towards the weather. The entire baggage in our overview are made from some form of nylon. Different basic messenger baggage may be made with canvas or leather-based, and painting a unique type if that’s one thing you’re in search of. 

The Timbuk2 Traditional, Nearer, Peak Design On a regular basis Messenger, Topo Designs Mountain Cross Bag, and KÜHL Eskape Messenger are all made with recycled supplies as a bonus. It’s at all times good to search for materials with a DWR end, which stands for sturdy water repellant and is a coating that makes the material extra waterproof. 

It’s also possible to take note of the denier of the material, which is a unit of measurement that signifies the thickness of the material’s particular person threads and, thus, its general sturdiness. The Mission Workshop Monty has the best denier cloth in our overview, made with 1000-denier Cordura. Another baggage, just like the Peak Design On a regular basis Messenger and the Osprey Metron 18, are made with 400-500 denier cloth which remains to be a testomony to their high quality and is lots sturdy sufficient for each day use. 

When you’ve received the fabric down, check out the stitching and {hardware}. You need stitches that may deal with your load with out popping, particularly round stress factors just like the straps. The KÜHL Eskape Messenger is bolstered in high-abrasion areas, and the Aer Commuter Tech Temporary has 1680D Cordura ballistic nylon aspect exteriors. 

And people buckles, zippers, and clasps? They need to be clean operators that give you quick access whereas maintaining your stuff safe. 

Lastly, it’s at all times good to provide the bag a once-over for craftsmanship. You need clear seams, tight stitching, and all of the items lining up good. Unfastened threads or wonky seams is perhaps an indication of shoddy development that’ll depart you hanging down the highway.

Climate-Proofing

Whether or not you’re dodging raindrops in your each day commute or trekking by unpredictable climate, you need a bag that may maintain your gear dry. Search for supplies like nylon, polyester, or handled canvas that supply water resistant or waterproof properties just like the aforementioned DWR discovered on the Osprey Metron 18 and Peak Design On a regular basis Messenger.

Sealed seams and water resistant zippers are additionally must-haves to maintain moisture from sneaking in by the cracks, as discovered on the burly KÜHL Eskape Messenger. And when you actually need to go the additional mile, some baggage just like the Osprey Metron 18 include rain covers or built-in waterproof linings for added safety when the skies open up.

While you’re searching for a messenger bag that may stand as much as the weather and go the space, maintaining a watch out for weatherproofing options and sturdy development ensures you’re investing in a bag that’s prepared for no matter journey comes your approach.

Value & Worth

Price range

Messenger baggage are available a variety of costs, catering to completely different budgets and preferences. On the decrease finish of the spectrum, you could find inexpensive choices ranging from round $20 to $50. Although not lined on this overview, you could find baggage on this worth vary, and these budget-friendly baggage usually function fundamental designs and supplies like nylon or polyester, with fewer organizational options and fewer sturdy development.

Whereas they could lack a number of the bells and whistles of higher-priced choices, they will nonetheless function useful carryalls for on a regular basis use, making them a strong alternative for these on a decent funds or in search of a easy answer. Our greatest funds decide is a little more at $75, however we expect the Carhartt Messenger Bag is an plain discount.

Mid-Tier

Within the mid-range, messenger baggage sometimes vary from $50 to $150, which make up the majority of the luggage in our overview. These baggage strike a stability between affordability and high quality, providing a greater diversity of supplies, kinds, and options to select from. You’ll discover choices made out of sturdy materials with water resistant properties, just like the Osprey Metron 18 Messenger ($120), with extra organizational compartments, padded laptop computer sleeves, and bolstered stitching for added sturdiness.

Though they could require a bit extra upfront funding, these mid-range baggage usually present higher worth when it comes to longevity and performance, making them a preferred alternative for these in search of a dependable on a regular basis carry, an ideal bike commuter companion, or a glossy briefcase for the workplace. We expect that the $130 Timbuk2 Traditional is nearly the very best messenger bag for most people accessible right this moment.

Premium

On the increased finish of the worth spectrum, messenger baggage can vary from $150 to $400 or extra. These premium baggage may be crafted from high-quality supplies like 1000-denier nylon cloth, or, although not lined on this overview, full-grain leather-based or waxed canvas. These baggage can have meticulous consideration to element and superior craftsmanship.

The Mission Workshop Khyte, at $390, is the costliest bag in our overview, with its two-layer waterproof development and premium buckles and zippers. Whereas the preliminary value could also be steep, these top-tier messenger baggage supply unparalleled sturdiness, type, and performance, making them a worthwhile funding for individuals who demand the very best.

In the end, the worth you pay for a messenger bag will depend on your funds, wants, and private preferences. Whereas budget-friendly choices can present a cheap answer for fundamental carrying wants, investing in a higher-priced bag can supply higher high quality, sturdiness, and options that improve your on a regular basis carry expertise. Whether or not you’re in search of a easy and inexpensive possibility or a premium bag that mixes type and performance, there’s a messenger bag on the market for you.

Incessantly Requested Questions