Best Stylish Bike Messenger Bags for Commuting 2023

by Albert Varkki updated 07-07-2023

Table Of Contents

If you commute to the office, run errands, or generally get around on a bike, a bike messenger bag can be a great way to get the versatility you need – without costing you your comfort.

In this post, we go over our top picks for a stylish bike messenger bag, and how to choose the best one in 2023.

Best Bike Messenger Bags 2023

Here are our top picks for a bike messenger bag in 2023, by type and style:

Best Slim Messenger Bag

Winner: Exquisite Slim Leather Laptop Briefcase

Pros:

Click here to check the price

Best Laptop Bike Messenger Bag

Winner: CITY Leather Laptop Bag

Pros:

Full grain leather
Detachable shoulder strap.
Hand luggage compliant.
Fits up to a 15.6 inch laptop (also a 17 inch version here)
Handmade in Italy
Dedicated laptop compartment
Additional zipper pockets

Click here to check the price

Best Messenger Briefcase

Winner: Essential Modern Briefcase

Pros:

Full grain leather
Detachable shoulder strap
15.6 inch laptop zipper pocket
Handmade in Italy
Can be personalized

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Best Satchel Shoulder Bag

Winner: No3 Leather Messenger Bag

Pros:

Available in black, brown, or tan leather.

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Best High End Designer Briefcase with Strap

Winner: No1 Premium Leather Briefcase

Pros:

Locking main comparment.
Useful easy access back compartment.
Full grain leather.
Handmade in Florence, Italy.
Soft cotton lining.
Durable YKK brass zippers.
15.6 inch laptop compartment.
Detacheable shoulders strap.
Can be personalized.
Available in black, brown, or tan leather.

Click here to check the price

Best Locking Messenger Briefcase

Winner: No2 Leather Messenger Briefcase

Pros:

Double key-lock main comparment with 2 internal dividers.
Zipped external back compartment.
Full grain leather, vegetable-tanned.
Handmade in Florence, Italy.
Soft cotton lining.
Durable YKK brass zippers.
15.6 inch laptop compartment.
Detacheable shoulders strap.
Can be personalized.
Available in black, brown, or tan leather.

Click here to check the price

Best Weekender Style Bag

Winner: Weekender Leather Travel Bag

Pros:

Full grain leather
16 inch internal padded laptop sleeve.
Internal zipped pocket for travel essentials like your passport.
Plenty of space for all your gear.
Adjustable shoulder strap.
Durable cotton lining and YKK zippers.
Perfect overnight bag.
Handmade in Italy
Can be personalized

Click here to check the price

Best Garment Bag with Shoulder Strap

Winner: Grand Leather Garment Bag

Pros:

Full grain leather
Dedicated garment carrier.
Carry a suit and shirt without creasing.
Large main compartment for other items.
16 inch laptop compartment.
Adjustable shoulder strap.
Durable cotton lining and YKK zippers.
Handmade in Italy
Can be personalized

Click here to check the price

Best Convertible Messenger Backpack Bag

Winner: 10X Leather Laptop Backpack

Pros:

Full grain leather
Can convert from backpack to shoulder bag
Fits up to 15.6 inch laptop or tablet.
Handmade in Italy
Can be personalized
Available in brown, tan, black, or red leather.
Unisex.

Click here to check the price

Best Professional Messenger Bag for Commuting

Winner: Elegant Slim Briefcase

Pros:

Full grain leather.
Handmade in Florence, Italy.
Soft cotton lining.
Durable YKK brass zippers.
Minimalist design and profile.
14 inch laptop compartment.
Top handles & detachable shoulder strap.
Can be personalized.

It's available in black, brown, tan, and red leather.

Click here to check the price

How to Choose Your Bag

For the best cycle shoulder bag within your budget, consider these key factors while shopping:

Size

Know what you want to always be in the bag. Add to this the amount of space you think you’ll need on other occasions – a computer, workout clothes, books, etc.

For heavier items, the shape and rigidity of the bag are important too - all important when on your bicycle.

Compartments

Partitions for smaller items are important, as is a laptop sleeve if you plan to carry your computer around with you. In the event of a fall, you’ll want your device to have significant protection, so a well-padded sleeve is a must.

Plan for the items you regularly carry, and then add in some space for occasional needs - a great alternative to a pannier.

Convenience

The versatility of a messenger bag comes from its easy transition from cyclist bag, to walking bag.

Try your bag on your shoulder and walk around a bit with some weight in it. It should feel comfortable and not awkward. If possible, try it on your bike too. It should sit well in place on your back and not slide around to interfere with your steering or balance - important on two-wheeler transportation.

Straps and Handles

Most bike messenger bags are single-strapped. Many have a joint waist strap for stability of the bag while riding – this is a good feature and a must for riding.

Make sure the straps are wide and comfortable. Width of the strap is even more important than padding – though they should have both. They should also be adjustable and hold their length once set.

Comfort

Wide, padded straps, with length adjustments are key. Also consider a well-ventilated bag if you are in a hot area with little rainfall – especially if you have a larger bag.

This means you get to enjoy your exercise while you work, which is good for your health. This also makes them an excellent commuter bag, as you won't feel worn our when you arrive to work.

Water Resistance

Water-resistant really doesn’t mean much. Anything that slows water infiltration, even for a few minutes, can be called water-resistant. Waterproof, however, is the higher bar.

A waterproof bag will keep your electronic, papers, and other valuable items safe and dry, even in very bad weather. Some waterproof bags can even stand being immersed in water for a short time while still keeping your items safe!

FAQs

Why choose a bike messenger bag?

A bike messenger bag is great for carrying items on a bike and transitioning to walking. It is versatile and comfortable for both situations.

Related:

Can these bags get wet?

If you buy the right bag, then yes. Get a waterproof bag for rain protection, or a ventilated bag for hot, dry climates.

Should I use reflective straps?

Reflective features are optional but will always increase your level of safety – especially when riding a bike. You can always add them to the bag or clothing.

How much can a messenger bag hold?

You can carry whatever you like in your messenger bag, but there are considerations. If you plant to carry a laptop, a good laptop sleeve and partition is recommended, to keep it safe and protected from a fall. If you plan to carry very heavy items, get very wide straps and lots of padding. Make sure your ag sits securely when riding a bike.

Messenger Bags vs Backpacks

They are better for people who go between riding and walking and want a versatile bag that allows quick and easy access to the contents. They often also have less effect on balance when riding.

Related:

Are These Bags Versatile?

Yes. In fact, a stylish messenger bag can complement a wide variety of looks. They are a fun and trendy way to carry things for work and play.

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Conclusion

We hope you found our best bike messenger bags post useful.

If you ever need any help with anything to do with bags or fashion, feel free to contact the Von Baer team, at info@vonbaer.com.

Browse all of our Work posts here, and our Style posts here.

Author: Albert Varkki

Albert Varkki is the co-founder of Von Baer. He understands leather products as a consumer, supplier, and a manufacturer, helping you with the inside knowledge you need, to choose the perfect leather product for you.

We always aim to have the highest editorial standards, and only publish accurate information on our website.