Working from home is great, but for those of us who have returned to the office, nothing is more frustrating than preparing for work the night before and realizing that your bag can’t fit everything you need. I end up having to choose between fitting a water bottle or my laptop. That’s why I compiled a list of the best work bags. If you prefer a commuter backpack, which is what I currently use, read this post. Otherwise, continue reading for the list I made of the best commuter bags for women.
In my opinion, the best commuter bags are, first and foremost, aesthetically pleasing. While this may not be the top priority for everyone, I find it essential to enjoy what I’m wearing and looking at every day. Additionally, I prioritize strength and durability in a bag, ensuring it can reliably carry all of my essentials. Since I carry my laptop with me daily, it’s crucial that the bag keeps it secure and won’t wear out after just a few uses.
I’m definitely considering a compartmentalized tote bag as I look to switch up from my current backpack, which, by the way, I’ve had for more than two years now. Having some type of separation in a bag makes it much easier to find what you’re looking for (who doesn’t love having a pocket for everything).
The 7 Best Practical Commuter Bags for Women
The Dagne Dover Daily Tote, available in both large and medium sizes, is a stunning bag crafted from vegan leather. The large size features a padded laptop sleeve spacious enough to accommodate a 16-inch laptop, along with multiple slip pockets for organization. A notable feature is a key leash, which is incredibly handy for keeping track of keys in the depths of your tote—especially useful for me, as my keys often go missing in my weekend tote bag. While the large size is perfect for larger laptops, it’s worth noting that the medium size fits laptops up to 13 inches.
The Rains messenger bag is another excellent option for commuters. Its waterproof material ensures durability and protection against any weather condition. It features a padded laptop sleeve capable of accommodating laptops up to 16 inches, keeping them safe and dry during travels. Its sporty style makes it perfect for casual everyday use, especially when paired with sneakers for a laid-back look. Plus, the adjustable shoulder strap adds comfort and versatility, allowing you to customize the fit to your preference.
Everlane’s Recycled Nylon tote is available in three versatile colors: black, khaki, and parchment. When it comes to selecting a practical commuter bag, black and khaki are the most suitable choices, as they are less likely to show dirt and wear. This tote is designed to accommodate a 13-inch laptop and features over-the-shoulder straps for comfortable carrying and shorter straps for handheld use.
While Cuyana’s classic structured bag may not be my top choice for carrying a laptop due to the lack of a dedicated laptop compartment, it’s still a spacious option that can accommodate one (although I wouldn’t recommend storing your water bottle in there unless it’s spill-proof). The tote offers ample room for essentials like your wallet, lunch box, and cosmetic pouch. Additionally, it features a small zippered pocket on the side, perfect for keeping your keys secure and easily accessible.
If I were to opt for a commuter bag for a smaller laptop, my top choice would be the MZ Wallace Large Metro Quatro Tote. MZ Wallace is known for its textured designs, which look so chic. Perfect for laptops up to 13 inches, it features six interior pockets, including dedicated slots for your phone and keys with a convenient key ring strap.
I can’t overlook including Calpak in this list, especially considering my two-year experience with their Luka backpack—the best purchase I’ve ever made. Now, let’s talk about the Haven Laptop Tote bag, a must-have addition to this list of the best commuter bags for women. Not only is it stylish, but it also comes in a variety of colors, offering options for everyone’s preferences. Whether you prefer classic colors or something more fun like baby blue or forest green, Calpak has you covered. This tote can accommodate laptops up to 16 inches and includes a removable laptop sleeve—an incredibly convenient feature. Simply removing the laptop sleeve allows you to seamlessly transition from your commute to work to weekend adventures. Additionally, the luggage trolley sleeve makes it a practical choice for travel, while the adjustable shoulder strap adds further versatility. Truly, the Haven Laptop Tote is an exceptional option for a commuter bag.
Have you heard of Rothy’s? While I’ve been familiar with their flats for some time, I’ve been curious to see if they live up to the hype. During my research for good commuter bags to include in this post, I stumbled upon their Essential Tote, and I must say, I’m impressed. The color combinations are stunning, and the shoulder straps appear to be incredibly durable. The bag looks spacious, and based on the dimensions provided, it should comfortably fit a 15-inch laptop. Additionally, the interior zip pocket is perfect for storing all of your essentials. Reviews suggest that people are genuinely pleased with their purchase, and the fact that it’s ethically made is a definite bonus.
Do you have a practical commuter bag that you absolutely love? Share it in the comments below! I’d be happy to update this list with your recommendations and make it even more helpful and informative for everyone.
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