Messenger and Shoulder Bags

Bags worn on one shoulder

A messenger or shoulder bag hangs from one strap, so you can swing it round and open it without taking it off. That makes it quick to get the laptop out on a train or in a meeting, and it looks less like a school bag than a backpack does. It suits shorter journeys and lighter laptops: a heavy laptop on one shoulder all day is hard work. The bags here run from business messengers to everyday totes, in nylon, canvas and PU leather, with a choice of colours on most.

The kinds in this range

• Messenger bags have a flap over the front and a long strap to wear across the body. There are business messengers in nylon with organiser pockets, a PU leather messenger, and a retro canvas satchel.
• Laptop totes are open-topped or zipped shoulder bags with a separate laptop section, some padded and some with a shockproof sleeve inside.
• Totes with a lunch compartment have an insulated section below for food and drink, and the laptop above.
• Lightweight totes in nylon, canvas and puffy quilted fabric, some foldable, carry a 13 or 14-inch laptop with room to spare.

How to choose

Check the size first: these bags are sold for laptops up to a given screen size, from 13 inches to 16, and some are made in both a 13 to 14-inch size and a 15 to 16-inch size. Then check the protection. A messenger bag with a padded compartment protects the laptop well; a tote with only a pocket protects it far less, so put the laptop in a sleeve first. A long strap worn across the body is steadier than one hung from the shoulder, and a padded strap helps on longer walks. For a longer daily journey, a backpack spreads the weight better.

Questions people ask about messenger and shoulder bags

Is a messenger bag bad for my back?

Carrying a heavy load on one shoulder for a long time is tiring. Keep the bag light, wear it across the body, and swap sides now and then. For a heavy laptop and a long walk, choose a backpack.

Are laptop totes padded?

Some are, with a padded compartment or a separate sleeve. Others have a pocket only. Each product page says which.

What is the difference from a briefcase?

A briefcase is more structured, with handles on top and a smarter look. Many messenger bags and briefcases both have a shoulder strap.

How long does delivery take?

Delivery is included in every price and tracked to your door. Each product page says when it usually arrives, so check it before ordering for a set date.

More to look at

• Laptop briefcases
• Laptop backpacks
• All laptop bags
• Laptop sleeves
• Leather laptop accessories
• Tech pouches
• Guide: How to choose a laptop sleeve or bag: the UK buying guide
• Guide: Laptop backpacks, messenger bags and briefcases compared