The 7 main types of messenger bags for men

November 09, 2017

#1 The Satchel

Satchels resemble briefcases, in the sense that they’re defined by the presence of two vertical straps for the buckles which help close the bag. Other than that, they can vary in terms of size, style, and design.

#2 The Vertical Messenger Bag

Most messenger bags have a longer width than height. With vertical bags, you’ve guessed it, just the opposite is true. Like regular messenger bags, they come in a wide range of fabrics, including (but not limited to) canvas and leather.

#3 The Briefcase

The main characteristic of such a bag is the fact that it’s made of leather. And then, what sets it apart from other types of leather bags for men is its retro schoolboy-inspired design. A leather briefcase will always feature a frontal flap, with one or two buckle straps for fastening the bag shut, plus (optionally) a corresponding number of outer front pockets.

#4 The Military Bag

Rough, rugged, and versatile, military bags are inspired by actual army items. They are almost always made of canvas, but can also include leather elements, as well as badges, or text in military-inspired fonts. They have several pockets, both on the inside, as well as on the outside, and usually come in camo green, or khaki. The main design features for this kind of bag are durability and practicality.

#5 The Saddle Bag

Saddle bags are very similar to satchels, but they’re set apart by the rounded shape of their frontal flap. Originally, this design ingredient was introduced to make the bags easier to wear by horseback riders. Nowadays, it’s just there because it looks cool.

#6 The Multi-Pocket Organizer

If the name of your game is practicality, then you’re best off opting for a multi-pocket messenger bag. Their design was inspired by utility workers, as well as by the bags typically worn by hunters and fishermen. Their outer pockets make it easier than ever to organize and keep your belongings within reach—which makes such a bag ideal for young dads out and about with the young ones.

#7 The Camera Bag

Still on the practical side, but this time with the pockets on the inside, here’s the camera bag. You don’t necessarily have to be a photographer to wear this style of messenger bag for men. However, you do need to bear its main specific elements in mind. A camera bag will always feature one larger inside compartment, as well as several smaller inner and outer pockets. These were all initially designed to accommodate the various charger and transfer cables that most modern DSLR cameras come with, as well as flashlights, lenses, batteries, and other accoutrements.