14 Convertible Bags That Do Double (and Triple) Duty
Collapsible water bottles? Sign us up. Lightweight shoes that take up almost no suitcase space? Yes, please. Bags that do double, even triple, duty? Absolutely. After all, why bring a carry-on bag, a backpack for hiking, and a tote or a purse for dinner, when you can bring one that easily converts into all three?
Related: More travel bags
We are especially fond of backpacks and duffels that not only transform into other styles, but are expandable, too. We can all use some extra packing space after a week abroad when we spend half our budget on souvenirs and keepsakes, right? This is where that pair of shoulder straps that converts a duffel into a more comfortable backpack also comes in handy.
Even high-end designers have endorsed this utilitarian trend by realizing that their jet-set customers need pieces they can easily take from day to night. So whether you are looking for something more urban- and business-appropriate or a sturdy hiking option, we rounded up 14 convertible bags that will become your new favorites.
Lo & Sons Rowledge Convertible Nylon Backpack Tote
Laptop bags are usually more on the utilitarian side of design but this one is an exception. But don’t let its stylish exterior fool you, it’s still packed with great features. It has a separate padded and zippered sleeve that fits a 13-inch laptop close to your back for comfort. The backpack straps easily tuck away to convert it into a tote, and you can even attach it to the handles of your suitcase thanks to a pass-through sleeve on its back.
To buy: loandsons.com, $300 (originally $375)
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Everlane The Mover Pack
This duffel/backpack has top and bottom haul handles, ventilated mesh shoulder straps, and in-strap handles so you can carry it three different ways. It also features a separate shoe compartment and a convenient wide U-zip opening.
To buy: everlane.com, $78
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Sherpani Camden RFID Convertible Backpack
This eco-friendly bag transforms into a backpack, tote, and a crossbody and just may be the most versatile accessory we’ve ever seen. It is roomy enough to fit a 15-inch laptop and features built-in RFID technology that protects you from identity theft.
To buy: ebags.com, $100
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Uncommon Goods The Adjustable Bag
Whether you’re heading on a weekend trip or a longer adventure, this lightweight bag has you covered. It expands and contracts to three different sizes depending on your needs. It also has various zippered pockets and padded shoulder straps for easy carrying.
To buy: uncommongoods.com, $149
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Notabag Convertible Tote Backpack
The convenient pull-through straps of this bright open top bag let you convert it from a shopping tote to a backpack in seconds — it's a weekend/farmer’s market day must-have.
To buy: nordstrom.com, $28
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Cuyana Convertible 13-Inch Satchel
Sleek, timeless design and quality construction make this satchel a chic and sturdy day-to-night option. It fits a 13-inch laptop and has enough pockets for all of your other work essentials. You can carry it as a handbag, cross-body, or backpack. And there’s also a 15-inch version if you need to carry a larger laptop.
To buy: cuyana.com, $425
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Leatherology Meadow Mini Camera Bag
A belt bag, a pouch, and a cross-body bag — this little leather number takes multitasking to a whole new level. You can even wear the strap as a waist belt in a pinch — that’s what we call a multifunctional item.
To buy: leatherology.com, $150
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Timbuk2 L Pack
You can carry around this cool backpack as either a tote or a backpack. It’s perfect for commuting, since it has a 13-inch laptop compartment. You can also access the bag from top and side zippers.
To buy: zappos.com, $150 (originally $199)
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Senreve Maestra Leather Satchel
This gorgeous Italian-made satchel is the definition of multifunctional. Made from high-quality, waterproof calf leather and stain-resistant lining, it’s compact enough in size to be the perfect daytime bag that you can carry for hours. It features a zipper closure under the flap top. When you’re tired of carrying it as a satchel, simply attach the removable strap and voilà: you have a backpack. Actually, make that a stylish backpack. There are 14 colorways to choose from in both textured and smooth leather.
To buy: senreve.com, $695
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Tumi Jane Convertible Backpack
Tumi’s Jane backpack is a multitasking powerhouse designed to make life on the road easier. It sports multiple pockets, including one that features the company’s recovery technology, which comes in handy if you lose your bag, and a sleeve that helps you attach it to your suitcase. And of course, it transforms from a cross-body to a backpack in seconds.
To buy: tumi.com, $325
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Baboon Go-Bag
Wherever your weekend plans happen to take you, this bold bag will not let you down. Designed to be carried as a backpack or duffel, it fits five days' worth of belongings and clothes, and has a sturdy waterproof shell and four pockets. We are pretty sure it also features the brightest and wildest lining we’ve ever seen on a bag.
To buy: baboontothemoon.com, $179
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Coach Quilted Leather Parker Backpack
Whether you wear it as a shoulder bag, top-handle bag, or a backpack, this gorgeous nappa leather bag will make your life — or at least carrying your travel essentials — easier on the go. We love the chain detailing on the adjustable straps and the textured leather at the front.
To buy: coach.com, $395
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Herschel Supply Co. Travel Tote Backpack
You can use this bag as both a backpack and a tote, making it the perfect versatile option for travel. It has a fleece-lined laptop compartment, as well as several other zippered compartments, so you can keep all your essentials within reach.
To buy: nordstrom.com, $120
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BÉIS The Everyday Convertible Backpack
You can totally transform the look of this bag, whether you wear it as a backpack or adjust the straps and use it as a top-handle or crossbody tote. This bag is also great for travel because it has a luggage sleeve and an RFID pocket.
To buy: nordstrom.com, $78