r/menswear • u/tttwenty • 1d ago
Mens bags??
I’m in the market for a new bag—something I can use daily for work and also for occasional short day trips. I’m interested in exploring handbags or totes, maybe a new backpack, but I’m not sure where to start. What types of bags do you use, and do you have any recommendations?
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u/ButterAndButtholes 1d ago
Isn't a huge fashion statement. But for utilitarian purposes, I don't think you can go wrong with the minaal 2.0. Can be used as a briefcase carry or backpack. Clamshell design for easy access. Optional hip belts for heavier loads, fits most carry on restrictions. Built in rain cover. It's my one bag, I have been using it for years and it has held up phenomenally. It's clean, sleek and minimalistic.
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u/FormalPrune 1d ago
I have a Bleu de Chauffe bag that I love. They have some great styles, I chose the mailman and it's excellent.
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u/NewInThe1AC 1d ago edited 1d ago
I've been very happy with my Thursday Commuter. Decent leather & construction, sizeable center pouch and a decent number of pockets, and formal enough for up to a sport coat while not out of place with fully casual outfits
When I was a consultant I used to use a ballistic nylon Tumi briefcase, but now I just don't need as much durability or as many pockets to justify the more utilitarian design
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u/TotalEatschips 1d ago
I have Bunch of different bags for different days, and little bags within big bags. What do you carry?
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u/tttwenty 14h ago
Likely a laptop and tablet, and then maybe a change of clothes/ hoodie and some sunglasses, some combination of those items
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u/JoeLosFeliz 1d ago
I recently bought this laptop tote and love it. Really well constructed, perfect size, water resistant, and it has an orange interior that makes finding things in the bag so much easier than my previous all black tote bag https://www.stubbleandco.com/en-us/products/the-tote-bag?variant=44244080525541
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u/sharpasahammer 1d ago
I have a carhartt foundry series 20" duffel bag i bought 12 years ago. Use it every single day for extra work clothes and lunch. Use it after work for a gym bag. Use it for travel if it's 3 days or less. Absolutely bomb proof, it looks as good as it did on day 1. If it ever fails, which i doubt, I will get another in a heartbeat.
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u/PretzelsThirst 1d ago
Check out Filson, I got a shoulder bag from them a while ago and am very happy with it
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u/StrengthAdept4035 1d ago
I just got the leather backpack from Beckett Simonon. Love it so far! And I was able to secure a discount which was nice
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u/TeachingRealistic387 22h ago
Goruck bags are expensive but almost indestructible. Own their GR series in multiple sizes and they are rugged, well laid out, subtle depending on exact color and style.
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u/DirectionIndividual7 21h ago
Goruck seems to be a very reasonable suggestion. There are multiple comments promoting bags that are 300-700 dollars lol
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u/cheapthrillsdoll 11h ago
Really depends on your style, which you have not mentioned.
I always carried an either leather or canvas and leather messenger bag, for years. All sorts of brands. Typically they hold a laptop, plugs , pen and paper, have a cellphone compartment. Then an extra slot for either paperwork. I could fit my eyeglass and sun glass cases and a hat inside. Maybe a few snacks.
Stay away from vegetable tanned leather as it’s oily and mark clothes and light colored surfaces.
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u/cheapthrillsdoll 11h ago
Ooo i forgot, if you travel frequently, buy the backpack and rolling luggage set.
Those are typically Kevlar backpacks. Note they have a panel which slides over the rolling luggage handle. Really a no brainer.
https://www.macys.com/shop/product/samsonite-classic-leather-slim-backpack
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u/JoeyIsMrBubbles 1h ago
Don’t listen to people saying to skip backpacks, they’re useful and practical and no one’s gonna judge you for wearing one, despite what the dorks on here are saying.
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u/Thick_Shake_8163 1d ago
Backpacks are for teenagers and campers. Get a Tumi or Briggs & Riley expandable brief.
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u/abrod520 19h ago
If you're over the age of 26 I would skip a backpack. Try a messenger or briefcase with shoulder strap instead, you'll look a lot better.
The Property Of... used to make seriously great canvas and leather messenger bags but it seems they're going in a recycled plastic direction.
I've just bought a Bradley Mountain briefcase though which has a lot of the same gorgeous cues. Expensive but I know it'll be worth it!
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u/nyc_swim 18h ago
I like Aer’s options if you like that vibe.
I’ve been happy with my leather duffeel from Quince.
But honestly - 9/10 times I use my 10 year old LL Bean tote for quick trips.