We’ve been testing work bags for years and these are the best of the best
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Senreve, Freja, KAAI, Bandolier, Quince
Samantha Crozier/Insider
The Allyn Leather Tote has the best internal organization features we’ve found in a work tote, with its laptop sleeve in 13-inch and 16-inch, snap-in water bottle insert, as well as smaller pockets for your phone or a notepad. And thank goodness for its mini compartments, otherwise we’d never find that tiny, elusive lip balm. The straps are also the perfect length and width for comfortably carrying over your shoulder.
“One of the best parts about this bag is how wide it opens, so you won’t have to go blindly digging for anything. But despite how much it holds, the bag has a manageable silhouette that isn’t bulky at all, even on my five-foot-two frame,” says Samantha Crozier, style editor, Insider Reviews.
Read our to find out more about why this bag got the hard-earned top spot.
Samantha Crozier, KAAI
This stylish work bag comes in ten colors that all function as chic neutrals. It’s made from 100% scratch-proof, UV-resistant Italian leather that won’t get discolored or wilt in the rain. As for the inside, it can fit laptops up to 15.6 inches and has a slew of other helpful pockets. There’s a place for your pens, charger cables, notebook, makeup pouch, and whatever else you need to tote around.
Plus, it comes in two other sizes — the (12 colors) and the (11 colors). I have the Mini Pyramid and I’m obsessed with the luxurious suede lining and the little metal feet that help keep the bottom of your bag from touching the subway floor when commuting. And I love the two outer pockets, which are super helpful for slipping your phone into for easy access. This one is a little bit of a splurge, but you’re paying for the highest quality.
Samantha Crozier, Freja
I got Freja’s after seeing the vegan leather brand all over Instagram. I absolutely love gold hardware, and workbags with a simple but unique style, so I’m partial to the aesthetics of this stunning bag.
This bag can hold a ton due to its roomy shape. I’ve put my laptop, a book, a water bottle, a jacket, a charger, and all my small essentials in it with absolutely no issues. Honestly, it could probably also fit lunch, a makeup bag, and a whole ‘nother laptop if necessary. The center compartment fits a laptop as big as 16 inches, which makes it one of the wider choices on this list.
The straps are also thick enough that they won’t dig painfully into your shoulders if you’re seriously schlepping. Plus, the also has many smaller compartments— zippered and unzippered — for essentials. Also, I love the gold-brown suede lining that feels luxurious and expensive.
One thing that might be a concern is that the middle zippered compartment doesn’t fully close. The bag is designed so that there are gaps at either end, which gives it that pretty silhouette. However, this means that this isn’t a great choice to double as a carry-on since putting it under the seat may lead to items slipping out. However, the brand does pitch this gap as a chic water bottle slot, allowing you to access it without going digging.
Read our full to see our other favorite picks from the brand.
Samantha Crozier/Insider
The Bandolier tote is made of high-quality pebbled leather that feels luxurious to the touch. Inside, you’ll find a zippered pocket, a few open compartments, and even a special pouch designed for storing your sunglasses. There’s also a padded compartment with a snap button closure that will fit a 15-inch laptop.
And since carrying a laptop can be a struggle if you’re toting it around all day, the Bandolier bag comes with reinforced straps. “My favorite part about this tote is the straps. The extra bit of leather reinforcement makes it so much more comfortable on my shoulder when I’m carrying it around — plus it can carry a lot, so I need the extra support,” says Samantha Crozier, Style & Beauty Editor.
Samantha Crozier, Quince
This bag from Quince is a great deal at under $150 for an Italian leather tote that’s big enough to carry a laptop. Similar bags cost twice as much. Plus, this one also comes with bells and whistles like a dust bag that is usually only included in more expensive purchases
It’s a great tote that will check all your boxes if you’re looking for a basic work bag. It even has little metal feet, which I love as a feature but many work bags lack.
If there’s one criticism I have of this bag, it’s the lack of pockets with zippers. The zippered compartment in the center is only big enough for a 13-inch laptop and maybe a slim paperback, so you can’t fit a ton in it if you’re already toting around a computer. Other than that, there are three open pockets in the interior that are big enough for a cell phone.
The is also not lined, which doesn’t make too much of a difference when you’re using it, but the interior is not as luxurious as most of the bags on this list. For the price, though, it’s a great deal.
See our to check out our team’s favorite pieces we’ve tested.
Sally Kaplan
Available in two sizes, Dagne Dover’s Signature Tote is what structured bag dreams are made of. The saffiano-style vegan leather looks just like real leather, and it’s just as durable, too.
“Some of Dagne Dover’s most popular features incorporated into the bags — like the water bottle holder, padded laptop compartment, and key leash that makes your keys easier to find — are also some of my favorites.” says Sally Kaplan, executive editor, Insider Reviews.
After testing the larger version of this bag, our recommendation is to stick to the medium size unless you need to carry a large backpack or need to haul around a lot of stuff. Besides the useful interior organization features like a laptop sleeve and water bottle insert, the best part of this bag is the shape and size of the handle, which makes it easy to carry over the shoulder even when you’re wearing a bulky coat.
See our full here.
Insider
This version of Everlane’s New Day Market Tote has everything we’ve raved about in the original, only this time with an eco-conscious update. Its flexible vegan leather is virtually indistinguishable from genuine leather and has far less of an impact on the environment. We’re talking specifically about its exterior, a leather alternative derived from plant-based proteins. The process of creating the tote out of its Italian-crafted material requires 83% less water compared to its previous leather version. and find out why it’s one of the best work bags for women in 2023.
Do note, though, that that interior doesn’t have many pockets or compartments, which might make this not ideal for everyone. However, this might be perfect for some people — like those that take bulkier equipment than a laptop to work (would be great for audio equipment, toting crafting supplies, etc.) It also makes the perfect shopping tote.
Read our full
Sally Kaplan/Insider
Brace yourself to be approached by inquiring minds wanting to know where your bag is from. The Maestra is a convertible tote that began trending on the basis of just how adaptable its structure is. You can easily change between a shoulder bag, a top handle bag, and a backpack. The city traveler will especially notice it’s one of the best work bags for women who use public transport.
“It can be swapped while walking without missing a beat, which is essential when the subway door is about to close on you but there’s only room for your body and not the large backpack attached to it,” says Sally Kaplan, executive editor, Insider Reviews.
At its current price, the Maestra is definitely up there. Though should you be looking to invest in a daily-use work bag, its timeless silhouette has the stamina to last through years of trend cycles.
Check out our full
Samantha Crozier, Insider
Monos has long been one of our go-to travel brands. We recently and loved some of the same things that we love about this tote. For example, this tote is a lot roomier than you’d expect it to be. You can fit way more than just a laptop and some essentials, which is why it takes the award for the best travel tote.
Plus, it has the travel bells and whistles you’d expect: a luggage sleeve, a zipper that goes across the entire main compartment so that you can tuck it under your seat without worrying about items slipping out, and a zippered front pocket for quick access.
If you’re always traveling for work, this is absolutely the tote for you. But if you want something light and slim for everyday use, then this isn’t the right pick.
Cuyana
Cuyana lets you create your own ideal work bag via the System tote’s variety of customizable options. After landing on your favorite color and size, you can also choose from Cuyana’s selection of add-ons, including a snap-in laptop sleeve, detachable interior flap bag, zipper pouch, shoulder strap (wide or narrow) and the organizing insert. Considering the detail of the System’s features, the exterior is by contrast very minimalistic. Its simplicity makes it easy to style, should you be on the lookout for a work bag that is cohesive with your workplace wardrobe.
Caraa
Another clear winner for one of the best work bags for women is Caraa’s dual-purpose Studio Tote. “Convertible bags are lifesavers for anyone who commutes on a subway, and this tote from Caraa is the best we’ve tested,” says Sally Kaplan, Executive Editor Reviews.
While the nylon version we originally reviewed is no longer available, its new Italian leather counterpart has the same appeal. This tote has dedicated pockets for your laptop, water bottle, phone, even a hidden side compartment for shoes. And of course, the best part is the removable straps perfect for converting your tote into a backpack and vice versa.
Check out our full Plus, check out our article on the for more convertible options.
Radley London
If you work in an office that requires you to dress up, chances are you won’t be carrying a canvas tote or a nylon backpack. This open-top tote is made from a faux-croc leather material that looks incredibly chic. Instead of a rectangular silhouette, the bag has a purse-like look with winged sides. Though it’s big enough to fit essentials like a laptop and a water bottle, its also fashion-forward enough that it doesn’t look like a typical office bag.
“This would be the perfect bag to carry when you’re wearing a power suit. It looks super expensive and the shiny gold hardware is a great touch,” says Samantha Crozier, Style & Beauty Editor. See our picks for the to come up with a full outfit.
L.L. Bean
This “cute, very utilitarian” (Michael Nolledo, former Executive Editor for Insider Reviews) work bag is distinguished by the Maine backwoods aesthetic of L.L. Bean. If your criteria for the best work bag for women is pure functionality, then this is the bag for you. It has it all— five interior pockets and three exterior pockets, designated to hold a laptop, a 40-ounce , and an extra pair of shoes or umbrella. The Stonington’s rugged cotton canvas is weather resistant and the bag features two sets of handles for hand-carrying or over-the-shoulder transport.
Caraa
Caraa is an up-and-coming indie brand that makes thoughtful considerations in its designs. The Stratus backpack is no exception, with its mesh netting interior compartments and removable pouch. Its exterior features clever details, such as with an inconspicuous pocket placed strategically on the flat back panel, and its exterior is constructed with a weatherproof cloudlike nylon.
“Starting with the material, you’ll find that it’s incredibly lightweight (we’re talking nearly unnoticeable), like a handful of feathers,” says Insider Reviews Executive Editor Sally Kaplan. What’s more, are vents at the bottom that air out any damp workout clothes, so the inside always stays fresh.
Check out our full to find out why it’s one of the best work bags for women.
Dagne Dover
Again, Dagne Dover dominates the work bag category with its equally amazing backpacks. Its roomy main pocket fits everything you need for the office and comes with a travel bag for shoes if you need to make a quick change from your streetwear to workwear. It’s cushy exterior makes light work for the average commuter.
“The thick and cushioned neoprene straps make it so comfortable to carry,” according to deputy editor Lauren Savoie. “If you’re not someone who carries a lot, you may want to opt for the medium size, but I think the large size is particularly versatile, especially if you’re someone who travels a lot for work or pleasure.” It also comes in a size small, in observation of the range of commuters’ travel needs.
Read more in our full .
Lo & Sons
Lo & Sons is another brand we feature often at Insider — not just because they make some of the best work bags for women — but also because they create superior travel essentials. The Rowledge made our guide to the , and it’s the ideal companion for commuters that need a work bag as capable of adapting to their environment as they are. “The conversion was so easy that I didn’t even realize I walked onto the train with a backpack and exited with a handbag,” says Francesca Rea, former Story Production Manager.
Check out our full
Bellroy
If you hate carrying bulky bags and want something that will stay close to your side, you’ll be especially pleased with this tote from Bellroy. It has exceptional interior organization, with a spot for your laptop, water bottle, wallet, notebooks, and any other essentials you carry. It’s flexible enough to shove in a whole change of clothes for the gym, but the light padding in the walls of the bag keeps it structured enough to avoid becoming bulky even when packed.
Bellroy
Aussie-based brand Bellroy stepped up their Classic Backpack with their new Premium version. It boasts the same comfort and features as the original with multiple tech sleeves and microfiber lined compartments for delicate items, such as glasses. The new leather panels are an attractive contrast to the weather resistant exterior. Its pockets are easy-access and sealed with stylish leather accents.
Dagne Dover
Dagne Dover’s Pacific Tote is best suited for more casual workplaces because it’s made from canvas, but if you opt for the black bag you can probably get away with carrying it to nicer offices, too. The bag holds an unbelievable amount of stuff on both the inside and outside of the bag. It has a pocket for your laptop and a huge interior cavity with organizational features that make it easy to fit your lunch, a change of clothes, a water bottle, and more. But what really sets the bag apart is the four external pockets that are big enough to hold a book in each one, plus a small card pocket for discreet external storage. This bag can also work overtime for trips to the beach or even a small trip to the grocery store. Overall, it’s one of the best work bags for women — but it will serve you for more than just heavy-carry days at work.
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