A messenger bag is a staple in the modern-day wardrobe — especially for frequent travelers.
In this day and age, it can feel normal to consider your office (or an airport) your second home. That means you’re going to need something sturdy and reliable to carry the important items to and from each location. A leather messenger bag is the solution you’ve been looking for.
While one of these carryalls can veer toward the pricier side of the accessory spectrum, think of it this way: A messenger bag is going to be there through thick and thin. It’ll constantly be by your side. For better, for worse. For richer or for poorer. In sickness and in health. You get the picture.
So, before you purchase yet another bag that will eventually break at the most inconvenient time during your travels, consider one of these timeless designer picks.
Here, we've compiled some of the best men’s leather messenger bags — each one of them just as sophisticated and reliable as the next.
Frye Logan Messenger Bag
If you’re in the market for something truly classic, the Logan messenger bag is your best bet. The antique cognac style and complementary jacquard lining ooze sophistication.
To buy: nordstrom.com, $498
Mulberry Brynmore Leather Messenger Bag
Keep your laptop and important paperwork safe inside the Mulberry Brynmore leather messenger bag; its twist lock fastenings ensure your bag won’t be flapping open as you hustle to make your connection.
To buy: mrporter.com, $1,270
Knomo London Brompton Kobe RFID Leather Messenger Bag
A messenger bag isn’t complete without pockets to keep you organized, and this particular style by Knomo London has several — zip pockets, pen loops, card slots, and a padded laptop section.
To buy: nordstrom.com, $299
Prada Saffiano Leather Messenger Bag
Gentlemen who prefer black leather to brown (looking at you, New Yorkers) can opt for the Prada Saffiano leather messenger bag. With its adjustable canvas strap, it completely encompasses the word “versatile.”
To buy: mrporter.com, $1,540
Shinola North/South Leather Messenger Bag
Shinola’s North/South leather messenger bag in Bourbon might not fit your MacBook, but that means it’s perfect to bring on short flights. Slide your book, phone, and wallet in the leather folds, and you’ll be all set.
To buy: neimanmarcus.com, $695
Gucci Textured Leather Messenger Bag w/Web, Brown
Want to make a statement with your messenger bag purchase? Gucci is the way to go. The signature web stripe down the front and antiqued brass hardware make this piece stand out in a sea of brown leather messenger bags.
To buy: bergdorfgoodman.com, $1,980
Cambridge Satchel 15-inch Classic Batchel in Leather
Combining the briefcase and the satchel to create the Batchel messenger bag was pretty genius of Cambridge Satchel. It’s just the right size to throw over your shoulder and, as the company describes, it can carry A4-sized notebooks, files, and a 13-inch lightweight laptop.
To buy: cambridgesatchel.com, $255
Kenneth Cole Colombian Leather Flapover Messenger Bag
If you look up “an everyday messenger bag” in the dictionary, you’ll find the Kenneth Cole Colombian Leather Flapover Messenger Bag. It’s simple, timeless, and, best of all, the dual magnetic snap closure means you’ll never have to fuss with locks or a flyaway flap.
To buy: kennethcole.com, $225
Smythson Burlington Large Messenger Bag
The quality of the navy Burlington messenger bag certainly lives up to the Smythson name. You can trust with your whole heart this bag will dutifully carry your goods from Point A to Point B in an efficient and elegant manner.
To buy: smythson.com, $1,695
