Our guide to the best work bags

Oh, the morning commute. That busy time of day where the queues seem endless, the trains are forever delayed and you’re constantly wishing you’d worn those comfy shoes. Know what can make it just that little bit easier? Well besides a coffee and a croissant, a great work bag that meets ALL your needs.

Before you throw yourself into the search for the perfect work bag, think of the ways in which you’re going to be using it. If you’re travelling to an office and carrying your laptop to work every day – getting a bag with ample space will be right at the top of your list. If you work in hospitality, a smaller bag may be more apt; one that’s easy to take on the morning trek for an early shift. And if you’re the kind of (verrry impressive) person that often has a post-work pilates class booked, think about a holdall-style bag with separate compartments so you can stow away your sportswear until the working day is done.

Our guide is your handy one-stop shop for every bag you’ll need, no matter your needs. We’ll even cover the best work bags that you can get use out of during the weekend, plus accessories that’ll make your bag work even harder for you every day of the week.

Best work bags: the backpack

Whether you call it a backpack or a rucksack, there’s no mistaking the popularity of this bag when it comes to the world of work. Loved by creatives, finance bros, working parents and the rest, this iconic style is here to stay and for good reason.

Unlike briefcases or shoulder bags, backpacks evenly distribute weight across both shoulders, reducing strain on the back and neck. This makes carrying heavy items like laptops, books, and other work essentials much more comfortable, especially if you're commuting long distances or walking.

  • Who it’s for

    Anyone who needs space and wants to keep their hands free for clutching a coffee or scrolling social media. One of the biggest reasons to go for a work rucksack is the fact they make it easy to keep your personal possessions zipped away and out of sight.

  • What to look out for

    Running or cycling to work? Well firstly, props to you. Secondly, get a waterproof backpack. You'll thank us when your important docs don't fall prey to the British weather.

  • Top tip

    Separate compartments can be a great way of keeping ‘dry’ items such as laptops and chargers away from ‘wet’ items such as water bottles and lunch. You have been officially warned...

Best work bags: the tote bag

We’re, well, tote-ally taken by this iconic number. It’s likely you’ll already own one of these… Perhaps it’s crafted from canvas and sitting under your sink ready for a trip to the supermarket.

The best work totes are those constructed from durable fabrics (bonus points go to those who pick waterproof iterations in preparation for a rainy day).

  • Who it's for

    If you don’t already own a tote bag, you’re missing out. This simple construction is essentially a single compartment with two shoulder straps. Anyone who wants to simply throw their belongings into a bag and go would benefit from the trusty work tote.

  • What to look out for

    When travelling to and from work, keeping your belongings safe is important. That’s why we highly recommend looking for shoulder bags with zips or poppers that keep the main compartment closed.

  • Top tip

    Spoiler: you’ll end up using your work shoulder bag outside of the daily grind, so pick one that can be dressed down when Saturday rolls round.

Best work bags: the crossbody bag

Didn't imagine the crossbody bag making it on this work list, did you? Truth is, the crossbody bag is a fantastic addition to your work bag portfolio as it sits close to your body, making it easy to access your items without having to take it off or set it down. You can quickly grab your phone, wallet, or keys without digging through a large bag.

Crossbody bags strike a good ol' balance between professional and casual. You can look put-together without the formality of a briefcase, making them a great choice for workplaces with a relaxed dress code or for a more casual work environment.

  • Who it’s for

    Not those of you who are lugging in a laptop, that’s for sure. This streamlined style is THE option for those who don’t carry endless belongings and want to keep their hands free.

  • What to look out for

    Crossbody bags are all the rage right now, so there are some very cool (and colourful) iterations on the market. Try get one with an adjustable strap so it can be loosened or tightened according to the amount of layers you’re wearing.

  • Top tip

    The thicker the shoulder strap, the comfier it'll be (on the whole). Thin shoulder straps *can* dig into your skin when you've got a full bag, so if comfort is key for you – bear this in mind.

Best work bags: the laptop bag

Would this even be a work guide without the quintessential laptop bag? This accessory does exactly what it says on the tin: carries your laptop from home to work, and back again, safely. They’re often padded, with additional slots for important documents and chargers.

While the laptop bag may seem a little unnecessary now that backpacks and tote bags exist, they’re still a fantastic option for those who don’t have a lot to carry besides their trusty piece of tech. They can also look more streamlined and smart than backpacks and slouchy totes, making them a great choice for those working in environments where smart shoes and sleek suits are commonplace.

  • Who it’s for

    Professional peeps, we’ve got your back. This is the kind of bag your parents would be proud of you wearing to the office, and it’s likely to get a few approving glances from your boss, too.

  • What to look out for

    Quality. It’s carrying one of the most expensive things you own, so make sure your laptop bag is durable enough to get it from A to B.

  • Top tip

    As is the case with many of the bags we’ve featured, make sure your laptop bag comes with a shoulder strap. You’ll never know when you need to throw it over your shoulder and go hands-free…

Best work bags: the designer bag

Why have a bog-standard bag, when you could have THE designer work bag of your dreams? It helps when you can nab one for up to 60% less than the RRP, naturally.

Don’t scrimp on your bag. You lug that thing to work every single week. You trust it to carry all of your favourite bits (no, not your laptop, we mean your favourite snacks obviously). Long story short: get a designer bag that makes you feel like a million bucks, even if you’re not spending a million bucks.

  • Who it’s for

    Anyone that loves a fancy brand, which is all of us, no? You can go for a discreet number so only you’ll know you’re carrying luxury, or snap up something big and bold to show off your style credentials.

  • What to look out for

    The world’s your oyster here, from designer handbags to designer backpacks. Luxury bags are often crafted from lovely things like butter-soft leather so enjoy the craftsmanship for a snip of the price.

  • Top tip

    When it comes to designer bags, they never stay around for long. Snap ‘em up now, or (seriously) regret it later.

Which work bags are best for women?

There are endless possibilities when it comes to finding the perfect women’s work bag. There’s nothing you technically can’t wear when carrying your belongings to and from your place of work, it all just depends on what you’re carrying…

If you’re known for bringing in the most elaborate packed lunches (we wish we were you), then looking for a roomy bag is crucial. The same goes for those who do a little window shopping after workin’ 9-5 and can’t help but bring home a few new buys…

Work bags for women don’t have to just be, well, work bags. They can become weekend bags, fancy dinner bags, date bags, holiday bags… Need some inspo? You’re in luck.

Which work bags are best for men?

Is there a one-size-fits-all work bag for men? No, there isn’t. But if we went out onto the streets right now and took a look at allllll the men, they’d likely be wearing a backpack. There’s clearly something about the practicality and durability of this design that hits the right note.

If you are looking for one of ‘em, scroll back up and read our section on the best rucksacks. If you’re still wondering what else is out there, feast your eyes on these…