15 Convertible Bags That Do Double (and Triple) Duty

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Courtesy of Leatherology

We really have a soft spot for all things multifunctional. And really, can you blame us? Travel, as exhilarating and exciting as it may be, comes with a few restrictions, most notably the amount of luggage you can take with you. So, packing smartly is of utmost importance.

Collapsible water bottles? Sign us up. Lightweight and foldable 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?

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 even 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 15 convertible bags that will become your new favorites.

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Each product we feature has been independently selected and reviewed by our editorial team. If you make a purchase using the links included, we may earn commission.

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Lo & Sons Rowledge Convertible Nylon Backpack Tote

Courtesy of Lo & Sons

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, $375

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Everlane The Mover Pack

Courtesy of Everlane

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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Camden RFID Convertible Backpack

Courtesy of eBags

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, $99

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Uncommon Goods The Adjustable Bag

Courtesy of Uncommon Goods

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

Courtesy of Nordstrom

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 is a weekend/farmer’s market day must-have.

To buy: nordstrom.com, $28

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Cuyana Convertible 13-Inch Satchel

Courtesy of Cuyana

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

Courtesy of Leatherology

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, from $150

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Thule Vea Convertible Backpack

Courtesy of Zappos

This bag showcases sleek Swedish design at its finest. It converts from a backpack to a duffel or sling thanks to a pair of wide, padded straps that stay stored away in a convenient back pocket. The bag has a duffel-style front opening, a padded main compartment for all your electronics, and a separate zippered pocket for gym clothes or shoes.

To buy: zappos.com, $130

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Timbuk2 Forge Tote Backpack

Courtesy of Zappos

You can carry around this cool backpack as either a tote or a backpack. It’s perfect for commuting. There are two separate drink pockets on the sides, a front zipper pocket for smaller items like keys, and a padded main compartment that closes securely with two buckles.

To buy: zappos.com, $99

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Senreve Maestra Leather Satchel

Courtesy of Senreve

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 28 colorways to choose from in both textured and smooth leather.

To buy: senreve.com, $695

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Tumi Jena Convertible Backpack

Courtesy of Tumi

Tumi’s Jena 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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Patagonia Lightweight Travel Tote Bag

Courtesy of eBags

Patagonia’s versatile carry-all is lightweight and tear- and weather-resistant so it’s ideal for hiking trips and overnight camping. The Air Flow mesh shoulder straps offer maximum comfort while the side compression straps help secure your load. It also features water bottle pockets and a large zippered interior pocket. And It comes with a small pouch where you can stuff it when you’re not using it.

To buy: ebags.com, $79

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Baboon Go-Bag

Courtesy of Urban Outfitters

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: urbanoutfitters.com, $179

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Vince Camuto Lev Small Backpack

Courtesy of Zappos

This stylish leather handbag converts into a backpack thanks to a pair of detachable shoulder straps. Or if you prefer to wear it as a shoulder bag, simply attach one of the straps to the rings at both top ends.

To buy: zappos.com, $148

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Coach Quilted Leather Parker Backpack

Courtesy of Coach

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, $450

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15 Convertible Bags That Do Double (and Triple) Duty

1 of 15

Lo & Sons Rowledge Convertible Nylon Backpack Tote

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Everlane The Mover Pack

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Camden RFID Convertible Backpack

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Uncommon Goods The Adjustable Bag

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Notabag Convertible Tote Backpack

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Cuyana Convertible 13-Inch Satchel

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Leatherology Meadow Mini Camera Bag

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Thule Vea Convertible Backpack

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Timbuk2 Forge Tote Backpack

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Senreve Maestra Leather Satchel

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Tumi Jena Convertible Backpack

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Patagonia Lightweight Travel Tote Bag

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Baboon Go-Bag

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Vince Camuto Lev Small Backpack

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Coach Quilted Leather Parker Backpack

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