Every adventure needs the right gear, and where there is gear, there is a bag to carry it in. The good news is that there has never before been so many bag options. New materials are making bags lighter, stronger and weatherproof. Designers are putting more thought into what we carry and how we do so, incorporating solutions to common problems and rethinking ergonomics and comfort. Users are joining the conversation, providing feedback from users in the field to help manufacturers hone their wares to the places where they are being used. The trouble is that with all these bags on the market it can be hard to know which bag is the best for you. We rounded up some of our favorites to help you find the right one for every one of your pursuits.

For the Office

Billykirk No. 237 Padded Briefcase

Designed with heavy use in mind, the No. 237 Briefcase is constructed with extremely durable waxed cotton canvas and latigo leather. Included is Billykirk’s signature handcrafted all-leather shoulder strap.

Lotuff Leather Zip-Top Briefcase

An understated, handsome piece with a full leather construction and an extended zipper for easy interior access, the Zip-Top Briefcase meets at the intersection of functionality and beauty. It’s wonderful for business professionals who have a lot to carry and want to do it in style, with two full-length exterior pockets and an interior that contains even more space for all you need. Pens, cards, and your phone all have their own designated compartments, and your 15” laptop will fit snugly on its own as well.

Long Wharf Supply Co. Newport Briefcase

Lightweight and built to last. The Newport Briefcase is a lifeline for daily use while on the go. Made of 18oz. dry waxed canvas and sturdy bridle leather, the Newport Briefcase will be by your side from the office to the boat and everywhere in between.

Orox Leather Co. Nuntius X Briefcase

Well-made and thoughtfully designed, this briefcase is the last one you’ll ever buy. It’s hand-crafted using high quality, full-grain leather. For the dedicated professional, this bag makes a serious statement about a commitment to quality and longevity. Holds a 17” laptop, several pockets to keep organized, and has multiple strap and handle options for ease of carrying. Use the shoulder strap as a messenger bag, as well as the cross-chest stabilizing strap for use while bicycling.

For the Gym

Aer Fit Pack 2 Backpack

The Fit Pack 2 stores your gym/work essentials without adding extra bulk. Stylish and functional, this versatile daypack goes with you to the office, gym and everywhere in between. Features include a front-load main compartment for spacious storage and easy access and ventilated shoe compartment that fits up to men’s size 13 shoes.

STATE Franklin Nylon Duffel Bag

The perfect work-to-gym duffle, but roomy enough for a weekend getaway. With multiple zip pockets and a shoe compartment that fits up to a men’s size 13US pair of shoes, this is a do-it-all bag wrapped up in a sleek package. And, for every product purchased, STATE supports American children and families in need in the ways they need it most. Whether that’s donating fully-packed backpacks at STATE bag drop rallies, to fueling #WhatDoWeTellTheKids initiatives to funding special projects supporting partner schools and organizations.

Troubadour Explorer Quickdraw Rucksack

The Explorer Quickdraw Rucksack is perfect for cycling or running to work, carrying your gear around town, and casual trips. This roomy rucksack has a magnetic roll-top closure, so it’s quick and easy to pack. The lightweight fabric, lining, and zippers are all waterproof. On the outside, there’s a zipped pocket for anything you need to keep handy on the move, plus retractable bottle holders. Inside, a padded pocket holds a 15-inch laptop, and there’s a detachable pouch for your tablet, chargers, and cables. Plus padded straps engineered to prevent pressure points, and a breathable back panel to keep you cool. Includes a trolley sleeve that cleverly slides over a suitcase handle.

Gear Patrol Tote 2.0

Whether it’s the gym, the office or a weekend at the beach the Gear Patrol Tote 2.0 has you covered. A reader favorite, the tote is still constructed using 18 oz durable duck canvas with a reinforced bottom to withstand even the hardest of daily use, but we’ve added a few features. There’s now a padded sleeve that holds a 15” laptop but is flexible enough to accommodate odd-shaped items like cameras. We’ve also added a snap closure at the top of the bag, as well as a hidden magnetic closure to the interior slip pocket. Still made in North Carolina, still a Gear Patrol favorite.

On the Go

Velomacchi Giro 35L

The 35L Giro Backpack is a high speed, watertight and versatile backpack with a magnetic hidden side pocket along the back of the bag is designed to carry a computer or tablet for extreme commuting during the weekdays. The back panel is open to slide in a hydration system to explore the trails on the weekend, while the articulating shoulder straps ensure a perfect fit for both men and women of all sizes. A waterproof main compartment with a magnetic roll top closure makes this the ultimate commuting and travel backpack.

Topo Designs x Gear Patrol Backpack Tote

We wanted the Topo Designs x Gear Patrol Backpack Tote to be the go-to for city dwellers, subway commuters and people on the go. But we also wanted to capture an outdoorsy spirit and distill it into a bag that offers the same kind of versatility and utility for urban use that technical packs offer for off-the-grid adventures. The unique design of the Backpack Tote, coupled with four distinct carry options, and sleek modern look make this bag a great solution for daily city and commuting use, but a simple robust build means the possibilities are virtually endless.

Troubadour Explorer Bivy Tote Rucksack

The Explorer Bivy Tote Rucksack is two lightweight bags in one. This super-comfy rucksack turns into a zip-top tote, simply by tucking away the shoulder straps. Your gear stays dry thanks to the waterproof fabric, lining, and zippers. On the outside, handy zipper pockets and retractable bottle holders. There are padded shoulder straps specially engineered to prevent pressure points and comfy handles for when you carry it by hand.

Matador Beast28 Packable Technical Backpack

The Beast28 Packable Technical Backpack is a game changer. With a rugged and technical build and an ultralight design which packs down into its own compression sack measuring just 7” x 4.5”, the Beast28 is a 28-liter pack that’s well-suited for travel yet ready for adventure.

Orox Leather Co. Viator Tote

Made for those who like to be on the move, and do so with charming good looks, the Viator Tote is a versatile leather and canvas bag that can go with you anywhere. Functions as a weekend travel duffel or as a large work briefcase. It’s equipped with thoughtful design features like a strap to attach to luggage and interior sleeves to keep laptops and items organized.

Weekend Getaway

Long Wharf Supply Co. Ipswich Weekender Bag

We all like to pack light. The Ipswich Weekender, built with 18oz. dry-waxed canvas and sturdy bridle leather are ready to go whether you’re heading out for a weekend road trip or flying to your next great adventure. With an abrasion and water-resistant body, the Ipswich Weekender will be by your side for years to come.

Orox Leather Co. Ryoko Duffel

The Ryoko Duffel was inspired by founder Jose Martin’s years in Japan. Clean and minimalist, with uncompromising quality, this is a prime example of what Orox Leather is capable of. Leather and wool come together in stunning form with this duffel bag. With multitudes of thoughtful design elements, like a shape that creates ample space, simple yet secure brass fasteners, and copper rivets, you’ll be inspired to pack this bag and begin a journey right away. Your travels await, and this elegant alternative to a suitcase is ready to go with you.

Billykirk No. 479 Medium Carryall

The Carryall line features a wire-framed zipper construction, making this iconic style light and functional. The No. 479 20″ Carryall is the perfect size for a weekend away. One exterior and two interior slip pockets keep small goods like phones and wallets organized, while the internal snap-clip makes for a quick and easy way to store keys. Made with high quality 20 oz waxed canvas and full-grain vegetable-tanned leather, every Carryall is designed to age with grace.

Hook & Albert Black Leather Garment Weekender Bag

This is the bag that disrupted the travel industry. The full-leather Garment Weekender Bag is a classic of the Hook & Albert travel collection. Conde Nast Traveler called it “the only garment bag you’ll ever need…” This leather duffel with garment first functionality was developed for a casual overnight trip, weekender getaway, or business trip.

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