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Whether you’re taking everything from your trusty laptop to your makeup bag to your gym clothes on a multi-hour commute or simply walking from your apartment to your local coffee shop with a notebook and a dream, a good work bag is a non-negotiable. But when it comes to getting all those essentials from place to place, that canvas bag you’ve been lugging your groceries around in may not cut it.
If you’re looking for an upgraded work bag that’s sure to keep all your day-to-day must-haves protected, we’ve got you covered. From chic work tote bags to comfortable backpacks, we’ve rounded up the best of the best, whether you’re headed to work or school. No matter your budget or style, read on for our top picks from R29 reader-favorite brands like Calpak and Quince along with more fashionable picks from Longchamp and MZ Wallace.
Caraa Studio Tote, $318
We love a multitasking tote especially one that’s as chic as Caraa’s Studio Tote that can be carried as a backpack when your arms are sore from arm day. This sleek water-repellant baddie can fit up to a 17″ laptop and has a rollaway shoe compartment for those who don’t have time in their jam-packed schedule to run home before hitting gym (or happy hour).
Cincha The Canvas Go-Tote, $119.99
Made from a water-resistant cotton canvas, the Go-Tote is a great minimalistic looking companion whether you’re traveling to the office or abroad. With multiple compartments, including zippered and mesh pockets you can stash your belongings (including laptops up to 13”) and easily find them secured at any point. The tote boasts top handles and tote straps so you can carry the bag multiple ways. If this bag is too large, you can also opt for the mini version of the Go-Tote weighing in at only 1 lb compared to the regular size at 3 lbs.
Quince Revive Nylon Large Tote, $89.90
This Quince tote bag for work is the perfect blend of spaciousness and sophistication. There are plenty of inner and outer pockets as well as a laptop sleeve for all your essentials. It’s also an eco-friendly option since the nylon was made from recycled water bottles, and the trim on the handles and bottom was made from recycled leather.
Bellroy Tokyo Tote, $129
This Australian brand has once again done it with a great personal item, but instead of a backpack, it’s the Tokyo Tote, which is made of durable, water-resistant recycled fabric with enough compartments to make your head spin. The organization, the space, and the pockets make sure that at the office you will be equipped with (and able to find) everything that you need from your laptop to hand sanitizer. Thank you, Bellroy, and thank you, Australia.
FP Movement Quilted Carryall, $68
This popular slouchy bag will carry you from work to drinks to dinner (or even on a weekend getaway) with its spacious interior space, abundant pockets, and funky quilted exterior. We have seen many Quilted Carryalls in the wild! If this lapis blue is too colorful for you, there are 25 other shades that range from neutral to neon to brighten your day.
MZ Wallace Metro Shoulder Tote, $185
MZ Wallace is loved by multiple R29 editors, and this very tote is carried by Associate Fashion Editor Victoria Montalti to the office. The thoughtful designs are what distinguishes MZ Wallace bags from the rest, this tote in particular is large enough to fit a laptop in but small enough that you won’t feel like you are lugging around a behemoth of a work bag. The tote features six interior compartments as well as a key ring, detachable pouch and zip-top closure.
Béis The Work Tote, $128
You may know Shay Mitchell’s brand for its luggage, but it also makes work-appropriate bags. This tote makes a statement while still being suitable for everyday activities. It’s meant to be worn from work to cocktails without looking out of place, and its removable strap helps achieve that. Never straying too far from travel, Béis added a luggage sleeve to make working on the go easier.
Calpak Luka Expandable Laptop Tote, $115 $97.75
If you’re looking for something more casual, this puffy tote is a fun option. Whether you’re bringing it to the office or taking care of business while traveling, this lightweight bag has multiple pockets, a padded laptop sleeve, and a luggage sleeve. But the most unique part is its expandable bottom, which gives you extra space when you need it and less when you don’t.
Ecosusi Sombre Vintage Briefcase, $82 $74
Vintage-loving girlies, this one’s for you. Ecosusi has the perfect vintage-inspired briefcase that doubles as a backpack or shoulder bag. Made of vegan faux leather, it can fit up to a 15.6″ size laptop along with all your work necessities from keys to notepads and a water bottle. We love the pink but you can also choose from four other cutesy colorways.
Banana Republic Slouchy Vida Bag, $260
If you’re looking for a work bag that reads cool girl style, Banana Republic’s Slouchy Vida Bag is it. Crafted out of soft, pebbled leather, this is the perfect nonchalant work tote to toss your laptop, lip gloss, headphones, and ID in and go — because what more do you need? The timelessness and size of the bag makes sure it easily transitions from a work-friendly tote to a chill evening bag so your outfit is always perfect.
Cuyana System Tote 13-inch, $328
Cuyana literally designed the System Tote to make it easier for you to organize your belongings. Crafted out of super soft pebbled Italian leather, this tote can be customized with organizational accessories like pouches and inserts that can be snapped in whenever you want — including a removable laptop sleeve so you can carry the tote for business from 9-5, then afterward remove any reminder of work for happy hour.
Loeffler Randall Bobby Blue Gingham Pleated Tote, $125
Not everyone needs a big tote for work, sometimes you just need a frilled gingham tote that can carry your journal, iPad, over-the-ear headphones and you’re good to go for a productive day at the office of your choosing. If that sounds like you, you will love Loeffler Randall’s Bobby Blue Gingham Tote, just perfect for those days when you want to work outside in a meadow (in your head), it almost doesn’t feel like any work is happening at all.
Lux & Nyx Origami Tote, $288
Time is money and money is time, so get yourself a bag that can do it all in a sophisticated package. Lux & Nyx’s Origami Tote will take you from the boardroom to lunch and then the airport. With multiple ways to carry it and an expandable design, you can fit all your gadgets and gizmos.
Cariuma JJ Backpack, $89
Who says backpacks have to be boring? This Bordeaux-hued bag from Cariuma looks as unassuming as the Jansports we casually tossed over our shoulders in middle school. But it’s loaded with work-friendly details, like a central compartment that fits laptops ranging from 13 to 17 inches. It’s also a great choice for anyone eager to live a more eco-friendly lifestyle, thanks to the recycled materials it’s made from.
Longchamp Large Le Pliage Tote, $155
Personally, I love a classic tote, and nothing is more classic than Longchamp’s Le Pliage. From the silhouette to the material to the colors, it’s a chef’s kiss that still packs a punch. Whether you’re a soccer mom in the making or just a carrier of snacks and papers, this bag is a stylish, refined solution.
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