(Part 3) Best messenger bags according to redditors

Search amazon for "Cartoon Purse" or "Cartoon Bag," there are a lot.

It's this one!

I just commented in the should I buy thread directed towards someone looking at canvas messenger bags for a more casual job. I responded with a recommendation that he go leather. Instead of typing it all up again, I'll just quote it here:

---Hi I spent the last couple weeks doing some similar searching for a messenger bag. I'm not a huge fan of the one you've selected there. TBQH I would recommend a leather bag, and if not I'd recommend a different canvas bag. Imo, a leather messenger is never really out of place, and definitely can be used as a casual bag, whereas a canvas bag will seem out of place and "underdressed" in a more formal setting.
If you ever see yourself moving into a formal setting, the leather will come in handy.
There are a ton of places to check but here's what I've found:

http://www.storenvy.com/stores/36675-deep-rooted-tree (these are expensive, but the 13" isn't too bad)

http://copperriverbags.com (massdrop is doing a sale and I believe it's still going where you get something like 30% off)

http://www.navali.com/bags/ (they have a nice leather messenger plus a lot of canvas ones that I think are a step up towards professional rather than student)

http://www.amazon.com/Visconti-Crossbody-Messenger-Plus-Leather-16054/dp/B008OJEP82

http://saddlebackleather.com

You should also check the bag FAQ in the sidebar for more options, but it is slightly limited. Search /r/frugalmalefashion for "messenger bag" and you'll get a lot of results. These are the ones I was looking at personally.

I ended up choosing a fossil bag because my girlfriend could get it through macy's with a lot of discounts that brought the price (245) down to something like 140. I am immensely satisfied with it but I haven't had it for long and unfortunately I couldn't find any info on what quality of leather it's made from.
If you do decide to go for a leather item, be sure to check up on saddlebackleather's leather 101 to understand why it's important to search for full-grain over genuine leather.
Hope this helps.---

Since your price range is significantly higher than the guy I was responding to originally, I'll also throw in that Leyden and Sons make some pretty good bags at higher prices.


The bag you've selected here seems like a great option, but I'd be wary about materials used. See the saddleback leather guide or wikipedia it to learn more about different kinds of leather. When a website denotes it as "100% vegetable tanned leather" instead of giving you what grade of leather they are using, it raises flags in my mind. Before you buy, I would recommend getting in touch with the seller and asking about the grade of leather he is using.

It's also very large. 18" is no joke, that's a foot and a half that you are lugging around. IMO, that's huge. They must have a 6'6" tall guy or larger modeling it. I find that 15.5" on my bag seems almost too big for me at 5'6". Please keep that in mind before you buy.

Another thing is that for 265$, you have a lot of options and I would definitely explore those options before you buy. I highly recommend that if you spend that much on a bag, you buy from somewhere like LLBean or saddleback, who have lifetime guarantees for their products.

Finally, I think what makes this bag appear casual is the flap. It's got a single buckle and that really pushes it towards casual/student instead of more serious/business. Here is the bag I got and you can see, imo, that the double buckle and the double-stitching on the flap add a lot towards giving it a more professional appearance, closer to a briefcase than a satchel. The reason I went with fossil was because I liked the bag after seeing it in person, rooting around in it, and trying it on, and it was at a price I couldn't beat because it was at Macy's and my GF had coupons+macy's card for a lot of discounts.

I hope all this helps and feel free to ask me any questions. In response to the farhorizontraders bags, be sure to look at their blemished bags, as those come at a large discount and oftentimes have only superficial blemishes. Beware buying camel leather, as it will stink for awhile until you break it in. Rather pungently.

How about this one, claims it's full grain leather. Better than the Samsonite?

Kenneth Cole
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0081X0IDC/ref=cm_sw_r_awd_fVZQub16RCFQ4

If you aren't carrying much, maybe try a money belt or something that can be tucked under your clothes. There's also slash-proof bags and fanny packs out there - I've never personally tried one, but they seem like they'd work well for you.

http://amzn.com/B007XAIFZ2

I have this bag and it works perfect for me.

I have one of these and I've been tempted to do this with it for a while now. It wouldn't be that hard, it actually looks pretty cool, and it would run less than $25.

I'm going to guess it isn't that great? The price just seems so high, and they must be paying an arm and a leg for rights to use copyrighted material.

Just compare the two, you pay ~40 more for the all leather bag that has great reviews (I have a smaller version of that bag and love it for my daily commute on the train).

To me you can get better quality for the price point or pay a little bit more and get something way better. As far as the jackets, coats and such go... yeah I'm going to not even touch that as you can find tons of things that cost as much or cheaper that are way better.

http://www.amazon.com/musterbrand-Eve-Online-Eden-Messenger/dp/B00K6DF5OC/ref=sr_1_37?ie=UTF8&qid=1416594783&sr=8-37&keywords=musterbrand

http://www.amazon.com/Visconti-Crossbody-Messenger-Plus-Leather-16054/dp/B00BF8VUZA/ref=sr_1_2?s=apparel&ie=UTF8&qid=1416594826&sr=1-2&keywords=visconti+messenger+bag

I picked up one of these last year, and it's been perfect for my purposes. My work laptop fits inside with room for a notepad, a book, and whatever I don't want cluttering my pockets. I still get compliments on it sometimes. Great buy.

I have this Visconti Leather Mesenger Bag. It matches my Midori Passport Traveler. It's what Indiana Jones would have carried his laptop in.

edit: it gets all scratched and distressed and looks bad ass. However, mine has a leather strap, not like the one shown, maybe mine is actually a different model...

edit2: I lied, this is the real one.

I really like the style of that bag, so I've been looking for similar items for myself that are more affordable. This is the closest I've found so far, and it's got a pretty sweet price tag.

Levi's Genesis

I can't comment on the quality as I don't own it (yet). The reviews seem promising. I'll be picking one up as soon as I can afford it unless something else comes along.

In bags, you say?

I have a purse... Don't need a new one but want a new one....why?! Because I am a woman and we change our minds! Travelon Anti-Theft Classic Mini Shoulder Bag, Black, One Size https://www.amazon.com/dp/B005AIIPLS/ref=cm_sw_r_awd_cyRLwbVV30H1M

Random Fact: I am a Muslim, wear black a lot and have been asked by small children if I am a ninja. I love it! 😄

I got mine for a birthday present, but I'm using a Kenneth Cole bag similar to this one. Not a bad price really, usually if you go for leather it's going to cost around 100 bucks. The leather is pretty nice though, it's very soft and also looks pretty slick. The flap is magnetic too, which is a plus.

If price is an issue though you can always find a cloth one, like this.. Just browse around Amazon and see what they have.

STM is the best!
http://www.amazon.com/STM-Scout-Extra-Small-Shoulder/dp/B004H4WKHG/ref=sr_1_16?ie=UTF8&qid=1341628487&sr=8-16&keywords=stm+bag
or
http://www.amazon.com/STM-BAGS-Scout-iPad-Olive/dp/B003BNY8B0/ref=sr_1_5?ie=UTF8&qid=1341628487&sr=8-5&keywords=stm+bag

Oranges are delicious! Here's a [funky orange bag!] (http://www.amazon.com/Orange-Satchel-3D-Cartoon-Bag/dp/B00C9KNLLE/ref=sr_1_24?ie=UTF8&qid=1368754253&sr=8-24&keywords=orange+bag)

STM Scout https://www.amazon.ca/STM-Scout-Extra-Small-Shoulder/dp/B004H4WKHG
Good iPad protection
Pockets for organization
No water bottle holder
Doesn't look like a man purse

I love my Chrome messenger bags (have three different sizes), https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B004670I78/ref=mp_s_a_1_6?ie=UTF8&qid=1468290155&sr=1-6&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_FMwebp_QL65&dpPl=1&dpID=41FsnJAsAxL&ref=plSrch&th=1&psc=1

They aren't cheap but will last you decades and they repair them for free in their retail stores.

I was hesitant to stat carrying around a man bag at first, but now that I'm the habit, it's awesome to have an excuse to carry a purse everywhere. I'd definitely recommend all of you dudes out there get over it and start carrying one. This is mine: https://www.amazon.com/Chrome-Mini-Metro-Messenger-Black/dp/B004670I78/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1466136836&sr=8-1&keywords=chrome+mini+metro

As for what I carry, I'm real new to all this, but so far it's just test kit, 1-2 Novolog pens depending on how far I'll be from home and how long, skittles, and a Frio depending on the weather.

1. Something that is grey. (Wish List)
   
2. Something reminiscent of rain. (Music)
   
3. Something food related that is unusual. (Candy/Snacks)
   
4. Something on your list that is for someone other than yourself. Tell me who it's for and why. (Yes, pets count!) Breath mints for my doggies because they like to lick my face, which is gross when their breath stinks. (Pumpkin/Petey)
   
5. A book I should read! I am an avid reader, so take your best shot and tell me why I need to read it! I read a free sample, and it is absolutely hilarious! (books)
   
6. An item that is less than a dollar, including shipping... that is not jewelry, nail polish, and or hair related!
   
7. Something related to cats. I love cats! (keep this SFW, you know who you are...) (Pumpkin/Petey)
   
8. Something that is not useful, but so beautiful you must have it.
   
9. A movie everyone should watch at least once in their life. Why? It teaches that you must face the demons of your past in order to achieve inner peace. And it's hilarious. (Wish List)
   
10. Something that would be useful when the zombies attack. Explain.
    
11. Something that would have a profound impact on your life and help you to achieve your current goals.
    
12. One of those pesky Add-On items. (Wish List)
    
13. The most expensive thing on your list. Your dream item. Why? We currently have a similar set, but two of the springs have fallen out under my seat, and the back cushion covering is pulling apart. This would be to replace those. (Nice things I don't need right now)
    
14. Something bigger than a bread box. EDIT A bread box is typically similar in size to a microwave. I think this is bigger than a bread box... (Wish List)
    
15. Something smaller than a golf ball. (Wish List)
    
16. Something that smells wonderful.
    
17. A (SFW) toy. (Wish List)
    
18. Something that would be helpful for going back to school. (Wish List)
    
19. Something related to your current obsession, whatever that may be. This combines two of my current obsessions - reading and My Little Pony. (Books)
    
20. Something that is just so amazing and awe-inspiring that I simply must see it. Explain why it is so grand.
    
    Fear cuts deeper than swords.

My guess is $36. 22

Less than $10

Less than $25

Less than $50

I bought this because it was recommended by another Reddit user and I gave it a shot. I take it to and from work everyday and I like it because of all the little storage components. Really happy with it so far.

http://www.amazon.com/Travelon-Luggage-Anti-Theft-Urban-Messenger/dp/B007XAIFZ2/ref=sr_1_5?ie=UTF8&qid=1416767199&sr=8-5&keywords=urban+theft+proof

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Cowboy-Bebop-Eins-Dream-Messenger/dp/B009UQ9DEO/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1406491159&sr=8-1&keywords=cowboy+bebop+bag

Only the coolest messenger bag ever!!

Happy gift day to all!

http://www.amazon.com/Visconti-Crossbody-Messenger-Plus-Leather-16054/dp/B00BF8VUZA/ref=sr_1_5?ie=UTF8&qid=1373381402&sr=8-5&keywords=visconti+messenger+bag

This one in tan. Usually just keep my laptop in it.

I would check out the Levi's Genesis. I got one recently and I like it so far.

http://www.amazon.com/Levis-Luggage-Genesis-Messenger-Charcoal/dp/B00BRGCHTI/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1411530656&sr=8-1&keywords=levis+genesis

best choice

Doctor Who Van Gogh Blanket

This isn't $50 but I thought you might like it. Doctor Who Van Gogh Messenger Bag

If I win I would like Doctor Who Weeping Angel

Dang girl have fun spending that money! Thanks for the contest :)

Here is the mobile version of your link

Hard to find black these days. Brown is way more popular.

http://www.amazon.com/MOLLYGAN-Schoolbag-Crossbody-Shoulder-Messenger/dp/B011J4C7T2/ref=sr_1_1

http://www.amazon.com/Sechunk-Shoulder-Canvas-Messenger-Leisure/dp/B00RLEJCCA/ref=sr_1_4

http://www.amazon.com/Ibagbar-Military-Messenger-Shoulder-Crossbody/dp/B019GQSC4Y/ref=sr_1_11

http://www.amazon.com/Moore-Carden-Multifunction-Shoulder-Messenger/dp/B010WOH1WS/ref=sr_1_74

http://www.amazon.com/Messenger-Vintage-Classic-Shoulder-backpack/dp/B011ZOZLLW/ref=sr_1_94

http://www.amazon.com/Texbo-Genuine-Leather-Briefcase-Messenger/dp/B00XN3RKQ8/ref=sr_1_120

http://www.amazon.com/Simple-military-canvas-messenger-black/dp/B00J8KVJEE/ref=sr_1_164

http://www.amazon.com/Eshow-Casual-Canvas-Crossbody-Messenger/dp/B00GWYTC2A/ref=sr_1_272

https://www.fossil.com/us/en/men/bags/messenger/edison-courier-sku-mbg9256001c.html

http://www.thebay.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/en/thebay/brands/MENS-Accessories-BagsCases/single-gusset-flapover-messenger-0080-524545--24

http://www.amazon.com/Samsonite-Colombian-Leather-Flapover-Brown/dp/B004XAVT8K/ref=sr_1_2

http://www.amazon.com/Kenneth-Cole-Reaction-Come-Soon/dp/B0081X0IDC/ref=sr_1_25

http://www.amazon.com/Kenneth-Cole-Business-Messenger-Size/dp/B002E1RSE4/ref=sr_1_27

http://www.danier.com/antoine-leather-briefcase/d/1581_c_360_cl_6336

http://www.danier.com/aiden-smooth-leather-messenger/d/2795_c_360_cl_13099

http://www.asos.com/Tommy-Hilfiger/Tommy-Hilfiger-Story-Messenger-Bag/Prod/pgeproduct.aspx?iid=5901253&cid=9265&Rf989=6588&sh=0&pge=0&pgesize=36&sort=-1&clr=Black&totalstyles=24&gridsize=3

http://int.debenhams.com/ca/product/designer-brown-leather-despatch-bag/083010317773/?categoryId=839618

https://www.wilsonsleather.com/product/kenneth+cole+split+leather+messenger+bag.do

https://www.wilsonsleather.com/product/marc+new+york+vacqueta+leather+porthole-handle+briefcase+w-+double+buckles.do

How about this one?

This is what i've been using for about a year now and don't see myself replacing this ever

I have been looking at this messenger bag. Does anyone have recommendations for using one of these? I am just starting to improve my wardrobe recently, but I don't want it to look bad with my current jeans and t-shirt style.

Try a Canvas NATO Medic Bag . They're masculine, cheap, and just the right size. I've been carrying one for years. Sometimes my wife or I refer to it as my "murse," but no one has ever given me a strange look or made a comment. For $15, it's worth a shot.

For that small an amount, especially of light things I usually just use a small single-compartment canvas messenger bag. Lighter than a backpack, and doesn't get your back all sweaty, and you can reach into it without getting off your bike, like to get food or water or a map.

I've used something like this, but if you've got an army surplus store in town I'm sure you can find something similarly punk.

ok if you want a cheap recommendation - maybe try Rothco.

i don't have their messenger, but i have a duffle that i've put through the ringer for over 4-years and it's still holding strong.

https://www.amazon.com/Rothco-Canvas-Classic-Messenger-Black/dp/B004I48KEW/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1519529216&sr=8-3&keywords=rothco%2Bmessenger%2Bbag&dpID=41tRcNP9tuL&preST=_SX300_QL70_&dpSrc=srch&th=1


i'm big on canvas if you haven't noticed.

This is the bag: https://www.amazon.com/Nintendo-Allover-Reversible-Messenger-Black/dp/B002X49AZ2 Its pretty spartan on the inside but it gets the job done.

And here's a link to my build and size comparisons. http://imgur.com/a/Zc1qw Let me know if you have any questions or want any specific pictures.

I just got a UTG/Leapers tactical messenger bag. I'm liking it so far.

Call it a Chinese knock off if you want, but mine has been used near-daily for almost 4 years and you could never tell. UTG Messenger

I have one from Lands' End Canvas. They have sales very often. I believe there's one going on right now, but they don't currently have a messenger bag on sale. I bought it when my cheap messenger bag broke.

http://www.amazon.com/Rothco-Classic-Heavyweight-Messenger-Bag/dp/B00101WG0K/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1348836344&sr=8-3&keywords=messenger+bag

I had this. It only took 5 months for everything to break.

http://www.amazon.com/Navali-Mainstay-Canvas-Leather-Messenger/dp/B005MS2BWU/ref=sr_1_23?s=apparel&ie=UTF8&qid=1348835692&sr=1-23&keywords=canvas+messenger+bag

I remember see this one on MFA before. It looks really nice and is very basic. I cannot comment myself on the quality. It's also a tad... not frugal.

http://www.amazon.com/Timbuk2-Commute-Laptop-Messenger-Mahogany/dp/B0080B7W34/ref=sr_1_38?s=apparel&ie=UTF8&qid=1348835692&sr=1-38&keywords=canvas+messenger+bag

Wow, look at that price range! Just kidding. If you are a fan of that style, TimBuk2 makes good bags. I personally do not like them because I think they're ugly.

http://missionworkshop.com/products/bags/messenger/

These are expensive. My brother showed me his large one. They're also quite expensive but from what I can tell, all around great bags. He bikes too, so it's why he got these bags specifically. He's much more frugal than I am, so I was surprised that he spent this much money on a bag to begin with.

You may want to check etsy.com too. I am not sure how much I would trust random person on internet making goodies, but hey, people do make nice things on their own.