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Nov 09, 2024

21 Best Work Bags That Can Fit a Laptop | 2024 Picks | SELF

All products are independently selected by our editors. If you buy something, we may earn an affiliate commission. If your closet is anything like mine, it’s overflowing with reusable bags you’ve

All products are independently selected by our editors. If you buy something, we may earn an affiliate commission.

If your closet is anything like mine, it’s overflowing with reusable bags you’ve acquired from gift shops and grocery stores. (And maybe a friend’s tote they left behind that you keep forgetting to give back.) But none of these will cut it when it comes to a work bag. You need something sturdy that can fit your laptop, charger, water bottle, lunch, workout clothes, and other essentials inside without causing you major shoulder or back pain.

To help you find the best work bag, we asked SELF staffers to weigh in on their favorites from top brands and sifted through tons of customer reviews. We also asked doctors and a physical therapist how to figure out which bags are designed with your load and lifestyle in mind (no more sore shoulders!). Shop our chic, easy-to-carry, envy-of-the-office favorites below.

In a sea of options, lots of styles might be a good fit. But if your goal is to find a work bag that won’t slowly kill your shoulders or back during your commute, we recommend keeping the factors below in mind.

Design

A backpack is the best option for your body because it distributes weight evenly across your shoulders, Evan Johnson, DPT, the director of Och Spine Care Outpatient Physical Therapy at NewYork-Presbyterian, tells SELF. Look for one with wide, adjustable straps that will support the weight of your backpack and keep it lifted. “Having the weight of the bag further from your body will increase the force of the pull on your body,” Dr. Johnson says—just like how it’s harder to hold a dumbbell far away from you than at your side, he adds. Also key: a chest strap, which “can be helpful in maintaining good weight distribution and allow for better posture,” Nadia Zaman, DO, a physiatrist at Tufts Medical Center in Boston, tells SELF.

While we love a good shoulder bag, they aren’t as great for commuting. Carrying a heavy tote on one side of your body can cause you to overcompensate by shifting your shoulders or leaning away from the pull of the bag to feel more balanced, Dr. Johnson says. But if you’re firmly anti-backpack, make sure your bag at least has a wide, adjustable strap so you can carry it up under your armpit instead of down by your hip. And if it can convert into a crossbody, that’s even better, Dr. Johnson says—the design will distribute weight more evenly and won’t throw off your posture (read: leaning to one side to compensate for the heavy weight you’re carrying on the other).

Organization features

Features like pockets and sleeves aren’t just for show—they can impact the way your work bag pulls on your body too. “A good backpack should have a separate sleeve for heavier items like laptops,” Taemin Oh, MD, a neurological spine surgeon at Och Spine at NewYork-Presbyterian, tells SELF. “This keeps the laptop closer to the body [so it] won’t bounce around as you go about your day-to-day activities.” Other handy elements, like a water bottle sleeve, zippered pockets, or key rings also keep your belongings in place, so your bag’s contents aren’t shifting around and messing with your balance.

Size

When it comes to work bags, bigger probably isn’t better. “It's a good idea to avoid backpacks that become bottomless pits of heavy items and to only carry what you need for the day to keep the weight down,” Dr. Johnson says. Just make sure your pick is roomy enough to hold your largest essential (like a laptop, lunchbox, or a change of clothes). Also, make sure your bag doesn’t weigh a ton when it’s empty—you’re only putting more stress on your shoulders and back this way, Dr. Zaman says. (Plus, it’ll get even heavier when you fill it.)

Material

Our list includes bags made from suede, leather (faux and real), nylon, canvas, and neoprene. If your bag will be exposed to the elements often, look for something that’s water-resistant or waterproof—otherwise, consider how easy it is to clean (coffee spills, exploding pens, and leaky water bottles are bound to happen at some point, after all).

Find our top picks below—because finding a new work bag shouldn’t feel like logging overtime.

Beis

Nordstrom

Beis

This writer is a huge Béis fan—seriously, I own the Large Check-In Roller, the Carry-On Roller, the Weekender, and the Cosmetic Case. The Work Tote was a perfect addition to my lineup. It has a designated laptop compartment on the side that keeps your tech close to you and prevents it from shifting while you run to catch your train, per Dr. Oh’s suggestion. Plus, there are plenty of interior and exterior pockets for my gum, charger, keys, snacks, and lip balms (yes, plural). I like to use the two thinner straps to carry my bag tote-style on my shoulder, but it also comes with a cushy crossbody strap, which Dr. Zaman says is helpful for relieving pressure.

I swear by the trolley sleeve, which allows me to stack this bag on top of my carry-on suitcase—a necessity for my frequent trips home to New Hampshire from NYC. The Work Tote even has metal feet on the bottom, so the leather doesn’t get scuffed up from sitting on train or office floors. (Another winning option from Béis is the lighter-weight Commuter Tote—SELF’s commerce director loves its vinyl material and vertical shape.)

Product specs

Material: Vegan leather | Weight: 2.75 lb. | Dimensions: 14.25 x 11 x 6 inches | Colors: 6 | Pockets: 7

Loveook

Amazon

This bag makes for a good Béis Work Tote dupe because it checks a lot of the same boxes: It’s made of faux leather, is a similar size, and has plenty of pockets (including a padded laptop compartment), plus metal feet that keep the bag from sitting directly on the ground. It also has handles that are long enough to throw over your shoulder, keeping the bag tucked in (and you upright). But here’s the kicker: It’s a fraction of the price.

Amazon reviewers say this bag makes it easy to stay organized and mention that its water-resistant exterior will keep all of your tech products dry. “The quality is excellent and so is the price,” one shopper says. “I love it more day by day.”

Product specs

Material: Faux leather | Weight: 2.75 lb. | Dimensions: 16.5 x 5.5 x 12 inches | Colors: 29 | Pockets: 5

L.L.Bean

L.L. Bean

If you grew up wearing one of those monogrammed L.L.Bean backpacks to school (guilty!), then the Boat Tote will bring all the nostalgia. It’s pretty bare-bones (no zippers or compartments), but that’s also what makes it versatile—you can toss food in it for a picnic, towels in it for a beach day, or workout gear for the gym. The handles have been tested to hold up to 500 pounds, so you can really stuff this tote full.

One SELF editor highly recommends scooping up a Boat Tote up: “I love how durable, versatile, and affordable it is!” she says. And yes, you can get it monogrammed (or stitched with your ironic phrase of choice, TikTok influencer-style).

Note: Reviewers recommend getting the tote with the long straps—not the regular ones—so it can comfortably fit under your shoulder, even when it’s packed full. We also like that the straps are sewn all the way around the bag: “Straps that go completely under the bottom mean you can carry more than you can lift,” one shopper wrote.

Product specs

Material: Canvas | Weight: N/A | Dimensions: 15 x 17 x 7.5 inches | Colors: 12 | Pockets: 0

Rains

Rains

Looking for a tough yet chic backpack? A SELF editor says this is the one to have: “A lot of other bags are big and spacious, but really bulky and kind of an eyesore. This one is so elegant and still fits everything I need—my laptop, water bottle, lunch, cosmetics, keys, etc.,” she says. “The straps are super sturdy, even though they look like they’re on the thinner side. They don't chafe or irritate my armpits, and my bag still feels super supported on my back.”

If you need to commute through wintry mixes the slick, waterproof exterior is a major bonus and is easy to clean with a wet wipe, according to our editor. Worth noting: This bag is on the slimmer side, so it’s not the best for bulky items (like a chunky lunchbox or makeup bag).

Product specs

Material: Polyester | Weight: 2.5 lb. | Dimensions: 19.2 x 4.8 x 12 inches | Colors: 8 | Pockets: 2

Madewell

Zappos

Of all the totes on this list, Madewell’s Transport Tote strikes the best balance between a work bag and an everyday catch-all purse. The two-tone leather makes it look sharp and appropriate for dressier work ‘fits, but the minimalist design is still spacious enough to fit a laptop inside (a.k.a it has everything you need, and nothing you don’t). Despite being a sturdy leather bag, it’s one of the lightest options on our list, so it won’t drag you down.

“This was the first work bag I ever bought, and it’s still my favorite,” one SELF editor says. “The leather has worn in so nicely (even though I wasn’t gentle with mine, it’s still in pretty good shape). And don’t be fooled by the straps—they may look thin, but they're actually super strong and don’t dig in at all.”

Product specs

Material: Leather | Weight: 1.1 lb. | Dimensions: 14 x 7 x 14 inches | Colors: 1 | Pockets: 1

Baggu

Amazon

Baggu

This bag might look small, but it fits one editor’s laptop, charger, mouse, book, and lunch, with room to spare. “I’ve tried my fair share of work bags, and Baggu’s shoulder bag is far and away the most functional, commute-friendly option I’ve ever used,” he says. “The interior zip pocket keeps my keys, headphones, and hand sanitizer firmly in place, again with extra room for whatever else I might need that day. Mostly, I love that I don’t have to be precious about this bag: The nylon is both durable and stain-resistant, so I can get it wet or throw it on the ground at an after-work event with zero repercussions.”

Plus, its size and materials make it super lightweight (less than a pound!), so you’re not starting out with an achy shoulder before you even fill it up. To make it even comfier, the padded strap is adjustable—meaning you can wear it crossbody or on your shoulder.

Product specs

Material: Nylon | Weight: 0.5 lb. | Dimensions: 10.5 × 14 × 4 inches | Colors: 10 | Pockets: 1

Dagne Dover

Nordstrom

Dagne Dover

Dagne Dover fans rave about the brand’s bags for school, travel, and almost everything in between. This backpack is especially nice for work, though, because it has a laptop compartment and about 10 interior and exterior pockets to keep you feeling organized and stable. Meaning, the contents won’t throw you to the ground if you have to sprint between meetings (our experts would be proud).

One SELF contributor gives the bag major props: “I love that this bag has enough structure to stay open while you're putting things in and taking things out. It doesn’t collapse on itself. I also love the material because it’s water-resistant and easy to wipe clean,” she says. “The included shoe bag is a nice touch too. You can use it for shoes, soiled gym clothes, or other little essentials.”

Product specs

Material: Neoprene | Weight: 2.1 lb. | Dimensions: 13.25 x 5.25 x 17.5 inches | Colors: Varies by retailer | Pockets: 10

Calpak

Calpak

This Calpak backpack offers something a little different from the others with its (faux) leather exterior and gold hardware. It strikes the perfect balance of style and function, with its trolley sleeve, laptop compartment (that sits close to your back, just like the doctors ordered), and several pockets.

“It’s perfect for hybrid office workers who bring their laptop to and from the office,” one SELF editor says. “I love the square, chic shape, and it fits a lot without being too large.” Also nice: It comes in a ton of colors, including fun bright ones that’ll add a pop to your neutral outfits.

Product specs

Material: Faux leather | Weight: 3 lb. | Dimensions: 15.5 x 11.5 x 4.25 inches | Colors: 27 | Pockets: 5

Longchamp

Nordstrom

Longchamp’s Le Pliage Tote is a classic for a reason, says one SELF editor. Well, make that several reasons: You never have to worry about your pens or cords spilling out of it because it zips closed at the top and has a leather tab that snaps closed over the zipper. (That tab also comes in handy if you want to fold the bag up before stashing it in your suitcase or storing it in your closet.)

“The nylon is basically indestructible and I like the leather trim—it makes it feel a little fancier without being too expensive (or so fancy I don't ever want to carry it in public),” one SELF editor says. “Plus, it's lightweight, so I can really load it up without causing serious shoulder strain.”

Product specs

Material: Nylon and leather | Weight: 0.8 lb. | Dimensions: 12 x 12 x 7 inches | Colors: Varies by retailer | Pockets: 1

Fjallraven

Amazon

REI

Fjallraven

The thin straps you see on some convertible bags might work fine on your shoulder—but in backpack mode, they could dig in and feel uncomfortable. That’s why Fjallraven’s High Coast Totepack is elite: It has two padded backpack straps, an adjustable crossbody strap, and two smaller handles. You can switch between the different styles without fussing with the bag at all (no unbuttoning, re-zippering, or anything else required). And yep, there’s a laptop compartment.

“This is the best bag I’ve ever purchased. I can fit a large laptop, one inch binder, agenda, smoothie container, large wallet, extra bag, and more in this and it STILL feels lightweight,” one happy reviewer says. “I often have to tote around two dogs with this and it has made my life so much easier…like, I can’t even tell you.”

Product specs

Material: Polyamide | Weight: 0.9 lb. | Dimensions: 15.7 x 12.2 x 5.5 inches | Colors: Varies by retailer | Pockets: 5

Caraa

Caraa

If you head straight to a yoga or barre class after work, you’ll love this pick. Caraa’s The Sport Tote has a shoe compartment for your sneakers, adjustable straps (plus one that’ll lock your yoga mat down), and seven sleeves and pockets to keep your essentials in place. It also easily transitions between a tote and backpack, thanks to its removable straps. While it’s technically a gym bag, the minimal design would look right at home in an office or coffeeshop.

Product specs

Material: Nylon | Weight: 2.3 lbs | Dimensions: 14 x 21.5 x 8 inches | Colors: 2 | Pockets: 7

Still haven’t found your perfect match? Keep reading—we’ve got other great options to choose from, including more SELF staff picks, below.

Reformation

Reformation

“Reformation’s bags are perennially underrated, and this suede tote is one of the most functional of the bunch,” one Glamour editor shares with SELF. “I own a smaller version, so I can only speak to the overall design (gorgeously unique) and material (rich, supple, and expensive-looking). But one of my friends owns this exact model and swears it’s the perfect everyday tote; it delivers on personality while being big enough for a small laptop and all the other daily essentials.”

With its bow-tied strap, this slouchy bag makes an equally cute purse, even though it’s roomy enough to fit your work essentials. Since it’s lacking some expert-approved features, we don’t recommend it for long commutes—but if your office is close by or you travel light, it could be worth a try.

Product specs

Material: Suede, leather, or raffia | Weight: N/A | Dimensions: 9.5 x 12.5 x 5 inches | Colors: 7 | Pockets: 1

Freja Tall Tote

Freja

Freja

Chic and minimalist, with a unique silhouette, Freja’s Tall Tote can comfortably fit a 14-inch laptop, a notebook, and a water bottle inside, plus a few extras. A subtle exterior pocket allows you to keep your phone and sunglasses handy on your commute. And instead of interior pockets, the bag comes with a small pouch to house some of your smaller items. We wish the inside had more pockets for better organization—but for days when you don’t need to carry a ton of stuff, we still think it’s a solid option.

Product specs

Material: Vegan leather | Weight: 1.5 lb. | Dimensions: 12.5 x 11 x 6 inches | Colors: 4 | Pockets: 1

FP Movement

Free People

Looking for something more casual that you can also wear on the weekends? We (and hundreds of Free People shoppers) recommend trying this sporty, quilted bag. The strap is long enough to wear crossbody (to lighten your load) or on your shoulder, while the roomy interior can fit your computer, water bottle, lunch, a change of clothes, and probably even more. “I swear it holds so much stuff and doesn’t look too bulky and big on your shoulder,” one happy customer wrote.

Product specs

Material: N/A | Weight: N/A | Dimensions: 17 x 6.5 inches | Colors: 32 | Pockets: 2

Cuyana

Nordstrom

Cuyana

Cuyana’s tote is another great option if you want something made of real, soft leather that you can sling over your shoulder or wear crossbody. It zips shut to keep your tech safe and has an interior pocket and loop to collect your must-haves (phone, wallet, keys!). The brand also sells a Tote Insert, to help keep your stuff separate and organized—another win, where our experts are concerned.

Product specs

Material: Leather | Weight: 1.6 lb. | Dimensions: 2.5 x 20.5 x 5 inches | Colors: Varies by retailer | Pockets: 1

Tory Burch

Nordstrom

This large tote is designed to prevent that “black hole” effect that comes with some spacious bags. You can keep your work gear on one side of the zip-top divider and stash your snacks or lunch on the other to make sure they don’t get crushed. Its three interior pockets will also help keep your stuff in place, even if you’re running late (literally). Another nice detail: The metal feet on the bottom of the bag that prevent it from sitting on the ground.

Product specs

Material: Leather | Weight: N/A | Dimensions: 11.4 x 14.2 x 5.3 inches | Colors: Varies by retailer | Pockets: 4

Everlane

Everlane

Here’s another bucket bag that puts a stylish spin on a typical work tote. The wide strap looks like a belt and can be adjusted to fit comfortably around your shoulder—our experts would be proud. It also has a deep exterior pocket for your phone and keys, and the interior can hold your laptop (plus whatever else you need to keep close by).

Product specs

Material: Leather | Weight: N/A | Dimensions: 13 x 6.25 x 9.75 inches | Colors: 4 | Pockets: 2

Quince

Quince

Quince’s Shopper Tote has a similar look to other, pricier bags on this list. This Italian leather bag has metal feet to protect the bottom, a center divider that zips closed to keep your laptop safe and upright, and three internal pockets. We also love the palette of rich neutrals this stunner comes in.

Product specs

Material: Leather | Weight: 2.1 lb. | Dimensions: 12 x 17.5 x 14.5 inches | Colors: 6 | Pockets: 3

Melie Bianco

Anthropologie

It might look like a slouchy handbag, but the Brigitte Satchel has plenty of elements that make it a solid work bag, like a laptop compartment and three pockets (including one that zips). Although the strap isn’t adjustable, it can fit over your shoulder—and the top zips closed, so your stuff won’t spill out while you’re on the go. Still, the standout feature is how good it’ll look with your office ’fits.

Product specs

Material: Polyurethane, polyester | Weight: N/A | Dimensions: 19.5 x 12 x 1 inches | Colors: 7 | Pockets: 3

Coach

Coach

Coach’s Brooklyn Shoulder Bag 39 (and its smaller iteration, the 28) is all over TikTok right now, with people praising the rich, jewel-toned colors it comes in. So if you’ve had your eye on it but couldn’t quite justify the price, allow us to do some girl math and spin it as a worthy investment: Its large size is perfect for heading to work and out on the town. Other key details include a magnetic closure, an interior pocket, and suede and leather styles—we only wish the shoulder strap was adjustable.

Product specs

Material: Leather or suede | Weight: N/A | Dimensions: 15.25 x 17 x 4.75 inches | Colors: 6 | Pockets: 1

Banana Republic

Banana Republic

If you love the look of the Coach bag, but not the price, this Banana Republic Tote has a similar vibe and a slightly slouchier shape. It buttons closed, has two interior pockets, and, like the Brooklyn Bag, comes in suede and leather options. It’s a great pick for shorter commutes or lighter loads—we just wouldn’t recommend it for serious schlepping.

Product specs

Material: Faux leather | Weight: N/A | Dimensions: 16 x 21.5 x 5 inches | Colors: 3 | Pockets: 2

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