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The morning commute to the office can be busy. Even when you’ve been doing it for years, and have it ingrained in your brain to the point you could do it half asleep, there’s always some intrusion that can pop up, like a delayed train, a spilled coffee, or a stubborn kid who simply does not want to cooperate and get dressed. You can’t do too much about the unexpected stress of day-to-day life, but you can be prepared to make your commute a bit easier to manage. When it comes to toting back and forth with your laptops, files, forms, and more, along with your everyday essentials, a good work bag can make all the difference between a chaotic commute and a calm one.
Sure, unfortunate mishaps will pop up all the time that are out of your control, but investing in a quality commuter bag, whether that’s a backpack, tote, or briefcase, can eliminate the risk of a broken strap or ripped pocket leaving supplies, electronics, and your personal items strewn about on the sidewalk. These days, it can feel like your whole life is packed away in your work bag, especially if you’re someone who also packs a pair of gym clothes for an early morning workout before you head to the office, or needs a few extra items to run errands with after. Long story short — your work bag can’t just carry your office essentials. It needs to be able to keep up with your busy schedule, and with the right one, you can eliminate some of the morning stress that comes with a daily commute to the office. Whether you drive, take the train, or walk to work, a quality work bag will never be a silly investment. As for finding the right one for you? That’s why we’re here to help.
Commuter backpacks
Backpacks are becoming more and more popular with professionals, particularly because of their ease of use. Although the traditional briefcase is still used, more and more folks are opting for backpacks because they distribute weight evenly across your shoulders instead of leaving one side of your body to take the brunt of it. The straps eliminate the unilateral strain that a briefcase, purse, or tote can put on one side of your body. They’re also better at protecting delicate electronic devices like laptops because they have special tech protection. Many have specific laptop sleeve compartments that are padded and suspended so they won’t get crushed or damaged by other items in your bag, and this way, they’re also easy to locate and pull out whenever you need to use them, even if that’s midcommute on the train.
Commuter backpacks are often more supportive, better padded, and more breathable than other options, with many having ventilated back panels to prevent overheating and sweat buildup. Many are constructed with weather-resistant and repellent materials and sealed zippers so that electronics, documents, and papers can stay safe and dry. More models are being designed with specialized compartments so you can organize your personal items with ease and find things like keys or transit cards in an instant. Some even feature special charging ports that allow you to keep your phones, headphones, and other devices fully charged when you’re headed into or out of the office. And because they are more spacious than a tote or messenger bag, you can often fill a backpack with more than just your work things. Pack gym clothes, lunch, toiletries, and other items that eliminate unnecessary trips home.
SwissGear 1900 ScanSmart Backpack
Eastport Unisex Commuter Tech Backpack
Messenger bags and laptop bags
Messenger bags and laptop bags are too similar to not be included in the same general category. Although messenger bags are a style designed to hold more than just your computer whereas laptops bags are made specifically for electronics, the expanding design of laptop bags gives them some overlap. Generally, they are both designed with handles and a shoulder strap, so you can carry them briefcase-style or sling them over the shoulder or across the chest. Messenger bags are often more soft-sided and flexible whereas laptop bags, because they are transporting a fragile device, are made with a more structured, shock-resistant padding. You can find a messenger back for laptops, but it’s best to keep that construction in mind so that you don’t risk damaging any devices. Both are great for hands-free mobility, although they’re traditionally smaller and have a lower volume capacity than a backpack. Although a bit too casual for formal offices, both styles are great for creative professionals and workers who like a more laid-back look.
KomalC Messenger Bag
Targus Citylite Softside Laptop Bag
Totes
Totes are the perfect choice when you like the look of a purse but need something secure and spacious. Not all have some sort of zipper or snap closure, so keep that in mind when picking one out. If security or privacy is super important to you, you’ll want to make sure you pick something with a closure like that.
Most commuter totes measure anywhere between 14 to 16 inches wide, 14 to 16 inches high, and 4 to 6 inches deep. They can come in a few sizes and hold anywhere between five to 12 liters up to 30 or 50 liters, but of course the bigger the bag the more you can expect to pay.
The wide-mouth design of totes make them great storage spaces. Compartments and pockets are built into the interior, and are great for storing smaller or more important items, like keys or your wallet. Many new models are designed specifically for commuting purposes and have special laptop sleeves to neatly carry your device without damage. That said, even totes not specially designed for commutes often have more than enough space to easily fit a laptop and other electronic devices. Unlike other styles of bags, totes are very sleek but spacious, and they’re often made from refined, water-resistant fabrics or synthetic leathers that look stylish and professional.
Lovevook Laptop Tote Bag
Kate Spade Thompson Street Commuter Tote Bag
Briefcases
Although not the go-to professional bag anymore, briefcases were once the most popular option for a work bag, and they still have a lot of good traits that make them a worthwhile choice. Nowadays, there are all kinds of styles, with storage capacities up to 35 liters. Although most briefcases have the traditional rectangular appearance, there are ultra-slim models made for a single laptop as well as spacious, multi-compartment options. Some even have convertible backpack straps now.
Although many messenger and laptop bags have a similar rectangular style, briefcases have the benefit of being a bit sturdier, especially attachés which have a hardshell construction. They are designed for decades of daily wear, although durability differs slightly based on style and material. If you appreciate a classic look, a briefcase can do you no wrong, especially in formal settings.
Jack&Chris Briefcase
McKlein Lake Forest Laptop Briefcase
Rolling bags
Sometimes, you simply can’t take the strain of carrying something in your hands, over your shoulder, or on your back, and that’s okay. A variety of commuter bags come with rolling wheels to make transporting your items super easy. It eliminates any physical strain entirely, and allows for effortless navigation through busy environments. The structured design of these rolling bags thoroughly protects your electronic devices and your items no matter where you go. Many models use 360-degree wheels so you can pull and push in any direction with ease, and there are multiple built-in compartments for organization so you can keep your bag neat and tidy.
Ytonet Rolling Laptop Bag
Amazon Basics Rolling Wheeled Laptop Bag
How do I choose the right one for me?
These bags all have their merits, but if you struggle with back, neck, and shoulder pain, you might find it best to opt for a backpack, regular or rolling, since most commuter backpacks are better padded and evenly distribute weight which should help decrease strain and pain, and rolling bags specifically are great at eliminating any pressure entirely. Backpacks are also great if you’re a student, perhaps interning at work between school years. You can effectively use the backpack for work and still get use out of it during the school year, making it well worth the money. If you prefer a more casual look, a messenger bag is a great option, but if you want something a bit more professional looking or work in a more formal environment, a tote or briefcase would most likely serve you better.
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