Buyer’s Guide :: Best Work Messengers (Part 2)

So what is a work messenger? Well, it’s not a messenger for professional bike couriers to haul random parcels in – that’s a different guide. A work messenger needs to look good and work well at work, when you’re working (at work).

It’s a single strap messenger that can deal with a laptop, some tech, a change of clothes, and will be comfortable enough for a cycling commute. Being Carryology, it also needs to be versatile, deal with at least a light drizzle, and even do well on a plane trip or three.

Is the position of Work Messenger up for grabs in your carry collection? These applicants are all eager to take on the role – welcome to part 2 of our buyer’s guide to the best work messengers…

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Mission Workshop Rummy

Mission Workshop makes some of the best carry out there, particularly if you’re commuting to work by bike. The Rummy gives you rolltop and flap-down access for carry flexibility, a 27-liter volume, a mix of quick-access and interior pockets and solid weatherproof construction. If you’re on the go a lot and want a bag that can keep up and glide between work, play and travel, the Rummy is well worth considering.

Mission Workshop The Shed

Got a shed load of stuff you need to haul to work? Mission Workshop’s The Shed is ready for duty. The same handy features as the Rummy but with a 35-liter volume means you’re covered when you need to carry extra gear.

Mission Workshop VX

Like the sound of The Shed and Rummy but looking for something extra tough? The Mission Workshop VX messenger takes things up a notch, featuring the Arkiv® closure system and a three-layer VX fabric for increased durability and waterproofness. There’s two colorways and three sizes to choose from to suit your preferences.

Defy Recon

If you like your bags with a generous dose of stealthy style, scope out Defy’s Recon messenger. Available in M35 military tarp and waxed canvas options, the Recon rocks rugged hardware (AustriAlpin Cobra buckles) and a range of sizes to suit diverse missions. There’s also a choice of exterior and interior slip pockets to keep your gear tidy. If you want something that’s a lot bolder than your average messenger, this is it. See the road test here.

Defy Vicious

Sometimes you want to organize all your gear; other times you just want to bung everything in your bag and go. The Vicious from Defy does both. A variety of organization options are available on the front panel and the strap, while the main pocket-free compartment keeps things simple, with a red lining for enhanced visibility of the contents. While the strap has an AustriAlpin buckle, there’s two options for the flap buckles – wallet-friendlier chunky buckles or pimp the bag with more Cobra buckles.

Seventy Eight Percent Gustav

Tired of carting the same old boring bag around? Well be prepared for envious looks from colleagues because the Gustav messenger is one handsome piece of carry. It’s not all fashion without the functionality though, as the bag accommodates up to a 15-inch laptop, with front and back exterior pockets as well as interior pockets for organizing your work tools. Plus it works for travel and leisure use too, making it a good option for people who want versatility out of their bag. Find out more in our road test.

Property Of Tommy Work Bag

The Tommy Work Bag balances casual-chic style with office-friendly design. Slip a 15-inch laptop in the main compartment, while smaller quick-access items find a home in the front and back exterior pockets. Add the flexibility of carrying it with the shoulder strap or by the handles as a briefcase and you’ve got a bag that ticks all the boxes for good-looking and functional work carry.

DSPTCH Briefcase

Want a trusty work companion that’s simple to use, with reliable construction that will see you through long days and longer travel trips? Meet the DSPTCH Briefcase, which is full of everyday functionality to get the job done. Sling it over your shoulder when you’re on the go or stow the strap away and carry it as a briefcase. Separate sections for a tablet and 17-inch laptop take care of your tech, with external quick-access pockets for grabbing items in a jiffy.

Filson Padded Computer Bag

If you lean towards the everything-in-its-place approach to packing, Filson’s Padded Computer Bag is one to have on your radar. Plenty of pocketing means all your work gear can be neatly organized, while the rugged construction and understated aesthetics that work in a variety of settings means you can haul it pretty much anywhere. Speaking of hauling, you can either opt for the removable shoulder strap or grab handles depending on your needs.

Veja Acacia

Veja creates fair trade and eco-friendly goods and their Acacia bag is a fine offering for work environments. Available in a variety of fabrics and colorways, the bag will fit a 15-inch laptop and looks good whether you’re catching that business flight, meeting up with a client or kicking back in the coffee shop.

Tom Bihn Founder’s Briefcase

If you love organization, this briefcase will have you in your element. The briefcase holds a 15-inch laptop and an optional Packing Wedge clips into the bag for carrying the likes of a change of clothes for an overnight trip. The aesthetics tend towards casual, so if your work setting is more laidback or you need to hop on a plane or train, this bag will see you right. Check out our drive by for more details.

Crafted Goods Carrera

With a style that’s bike-bag-meets-work-bag, the Carrera lends itself to the commute and the office equally well – so much so it scooped a High Commendation in our Best Active Messenger Award. There’s a few different options for organizing the contents, a 15-inch laptop will fit inside, plus the protective recycled inner tube tire base is an awesome added touch. Find out more in our road test.

Archival Field Bag

Understated, durable and functional, if you don’t need to carry tons of stuff or awkward loads the Archival Field Bag has pretty much everything you need in a work bag. The timeless design has you covered for years to come, the front and back exterior pockets are handy for stashing quick-access items, while the main compartment is large enough for a laptop, work folders and other assorted daily items you might need.

Pacsafe Intasafe™ Z400

The work-friendly aesthetics and handy organization features of the Intasafe Z400 are great for the office, while the range of nifty security features provides peace of mind when traveling with the bag. This is a thoughtful, versatile piece of carry that deservedly scored top honors in our Best Work Messenger Award.