The Ultimate Guide to Different Types of Bags for Men

Twenty years ago, the world wasn’t ready for Joey Tribianni Jr. and his “man bag,” but times have certainly changed now. Men’s fashion decisions, even the most basic ones like different types of men’s bags, are now just as significant as women’s bags.

In this article, we will talk about all types of bags for men and every aspect associated with them. Let’s begin!

What are the Different Types of Bags for Men and How to Choose the Right One 

Here is a brief rundown of different types of bags for men:

• Backpacks: Backpacks are great for everyday use, as well as for travel and outdoor activities. Laptop bag is one of the most commonly used backpacks.
• Messenger Bags: Messenger bags are great for commuters, students, and professionals who need to carry laptops, books, and other essentials.
• Briefcases: Briefcases are classic bag types. They are great for carrying documents, laptops, and other business essentials. 
• Duffel Bags: Duffel bags are great when you need a spacious bag for travel or gym use. 
• Tote Bags: Tote bags are great for carrying books, groceries, and other essentials. Tote bags come in a variety of materials and can be carried by hand or over the shoulder.
• Crossbody Bags: Crossbody bags have a long strap that goes across the body, making them easy to carry.

Now let’s delve into the subject of picking the right one for you. Below are some things to consider when choosing a bag:

• Purpose: Narrow down your options and find a bag that is suitable for your needs like travel, work, hiking or gym.
• Size: Think about what you’ll be carrying in the bag and choose a size that fits your needs.
• Material: Consider the durability and the look and feel of the material. 
• Style: Consider your personal style and what will look good with your everyday outfits.
• Comfort: Look for features like padded straps, adjustable straps, and lightweight materials that won’t weigh you down.
• Budget: Bags come in a wide range of prices, so determine how much you’re willing to spend before making a purchase.

Types of Bags for Men – A Closer Look at the Most Popular Styles 

1. Backpacks – Types and Uses

Backpacks are a popular choice for men because they are comfortable and versatile. Here’s all about backpacks:

• Daypacks: These are small to medium-sized backpacks that are perfect for everyday use, like commuting to work or school.
• Hiking Backpacks: These backpacks are designed specifically for hiking and outdoor activities. They have specialized compartments and straps for carrying gear.
• Travel Backpacks: These backpacks are designed for travel and usually have a larger capacity than daypacks.

2. Messenger Bags – Styles and Features 

Messenger bags are a great option for men who want a stylish and functional bag that’s easy to carry. Here’s what you need to know:

Styles:

• Classic Messenger Bags: These have a simple, rectangular shape with a flap closure over the top of the bag. They typically have one or two pockets on the front and a larger compartment for storage.
• Laptop Messenger Bags: These are designed specifically for carrying laptops and other electronics. They often have padded compartments and multiple pockets for organization.
• Bike Messenger Bags: These are designed for cyclists who need a bag that’s easy to carry while riding. They often have cross-body straps and reflective materials for visibility.

Features:

• Adjustable Strap: A good messenger bag should have an adjustable strap so you can find the perfect fit for your body.
• Pockets and Compartments: Look for a bag with multiple pockets and compartments for organization.
• Closure: A good messenger bag should have a secure closure, such as a zipper or buckle, to keep your belongings safe.

3. Briefcases – Styles and Features

Briefcases are a classic and professional option for men who want a stylish and organized way to carry their work essentials. Here’s what you need to know:

Styles:

• Classic Leather Briefcases: These are the most common type of briefcase and have a professional look that’s great for business settings.
• Modern Briefcases: These are sleek and minimalist and usually have a more casual look and feel, making them a great option for everyday use.
• Rolling Briefcases: These have wheels for easy transport as they are designed for travelers who need to carry a lot of weight.

Features:

• Interior Organization: Look for a briefcase with interior pockets and compartments to keep your items organized and easy to find.
• Comfortable Handle: Look for a briefcase with a comfortable handle that won’t dig into your hand.
• Locking Mechanism: If you need to keep your belongings secure, look for a briefcase with a locking mechanism.

4. Duffel Bags – Different Fabric Types and Carry Options 

Duffel bags are a versatile option for men who want a bag that can be used for a variety of purposes, from travel to gym workouts. Here’s what you need to know:

Different Fabric Types:

• Canvas: This is a popular choice for duffel bags because it’s durable and can withstand heavy use. 
• Nylon: Nylon is lightweight and water-resistant, making it a great choice for duffel bags used for travel or outdoor activities.
• Leather: Leather duffel bags have a sophisticated and luxurious look.

Carry Options:

• Shoulder Strap: Many duffel bags come with a detachable or adjustable shoulder strap, making them easy to carry on your shoulder or across your body.
• Handles: Duffel bags often have sturdy handles that make them easy to carry by hand.
• Backpack Straps: Some duffel bags have backpack straps that can be more comfortable for longer periods of use.

5. Tote Bags – How to Choose the Right Bag for You 

• Size: Make sure it is large enough to fit your items comfortably, but not too big that it becomes weighty to carry around.
• Material: Think about the material of the tote bag. Consider factors like durability, breathability, and water resistance.
• Comfort: Look for a bag with comfortable straps that won’t dig into your shoulders when carrying heavy items. Adjustable straps are also a plus.

6. Gym Bags – Sizing Up Your Needs for Maximum Comfort and Durability 

• If you carry a change of clothes and shoes for men, choose a bag that can comfortably accommodate them all.
• Look for bags made from lightweight and durable materials such as nylon or polyester making them sturdy enough to withstand the wear and tear of daily use.
• Look for bags with padded straps or handles, as well as those with ventilated compartments to keep sweaty clothes like shorts for men and shoes separate from your other items.

The Pros & Cons of Each Type of Bag for Men 

Backpack pros and cons

Pros

• Comfort: Backpacks are designed to distribute the weight of your items evenly across your back.
• Organization: Many backpacks offer multiple compartments and pockets for organizing your items.

Cons

• Bulk: Backpacks can be bulky and can take up a lot of space, making them less convenient in crowded areas.
• Accessibility: With a backpack, you may have to take it off to access your items, which can be inconvenient in certain situations.

Pros and cons of Messenger Bags 

Pros

• Style: Messenger bags offer a stylish and professional look, making them a great choice for work or business meetings.
• Accessibility: With a messenger bag, you can access your items without having to take off the bag, which can be convenient in certain situations.

Cons

• Capacity: Messenger bags are typically smaller than backpacks, which may not be sufficient for carrying larger items or for longer trips.
• Unbalanced Load: If the messenger bag is not packed evenly, it can cause discomfort or strain on one side of your body.

Briefcase pros and cons

Pros

• Durability: Briefcases are typically made from high-quality materials, making them durable and long-lasting.
• Security: Briefcases often come with a lock or other security features, making it difficult for unauthorized access to your belongings.

Cons

• Heavy: Briefcases can be heavy and cumbersome, making them less convenient for extended travel. They have limited storage capacity, which may not be sufficient for larger items or longer trips.
• Not Hands-Free: With a briefcase, your hands are not free to carry other items or do other activities while on the go.

Pros and cons of duffel bags

Pros

• Spacious: Duffel bags are spacious and roomy, making them ideal for carrying a lot of items at once.
• Easy to Carry: Duffel bags typically have shoulder straps and handles, making them easy to carry. They have a single compartment. You can carry T-shirts for men, jeans for men, shorts for men and vests for men without hassles.

Cons

• No Locks: Duffel bags often lack lockable zippers or other security features.
• Bulky: Due to their size, duffel bags can be bulky and difficult to store in small spaces.

Pros and cons of tote bags for men

Pros

• Spacious: Tote bags are often spacious and roomy.
• Easy to Access: Tote bags usually have an open top and you can access items without having to unzip or unbuckle. Their shoulder straps or handles make them easy and comfortable to carry.

Cons

• Limited Organization: Tote bags typically have one main compartment making it challenging to keep items organized.
• Not Waterproof: Tote bags are often made from fabric making them unsuitable for wet weather.

Pros and cons of gym bags

Pros

• Spacious: Gym bags are spacious and roomy, making them ideal for carrying gym clothes like joggers for men, etc.
• Separate Compartments: Many gym bags have separate compartments for shoes for men, etc.

Cons

• Limited Organization: Some gym bags may lack pockets.
• Heavy: If you pack a lot of items, gym bags can become heavy and cumbersome to carry around.

How to Find the Perfect Bag for You: Tips and Tricks 

We understand that it can be a huge task when it comes to buying the perfect bag for you. This article is our best type of men bag guide. Below are some tips and tricks to help you find the perfect bag:

• Determine your needs: Before you start shopping, it’s important to determine what you’ll be using the bag for.
• Consider your style: You want a bag that reflects your personal style, so think about the colors, materials, and designs that appeal to you.
• Quality over price: While it can be tempting to opt for the cheapest bag available, investing in a high-quality bag can pay off in the long run.
• Look for the right size: Consider how much you’ll be carrying in your bag and choose a size that’s appropriate.
• Check the features: Look for a bag that has the features you need, such as pockets for organization, adjustable straps for comfort, and sturdy zippers or closures.

Final thoughts…

Nothing finishes off a look like a high-quality, well-structured bag. We’ve listed the most fundamental and significant ones above. We hope that now you know that bags are not just for women. You too can own bags for every look and occasion. And finally, you’re welcome!