Complete your wardrobe with these must-have man bags!

Written by: Andrea Aviado

Gentlemen, we know how easy it is to buy a men’s bag and think that it’s just simple storage, merely a place to put your belongings in while on the go. But some instances can be demanding — your go-to man bag may not be enough to fit all your things or simply just doesn’t match your look.

If you want to skip those head-scratching moments in front of the mirror, here are five essentials bags that every man should have to complete their wardrobe.

1. Messenger Bag

Originally used by mail couriers to deliver posts, messenger bags are a definition of convenience for the ease of access that it offers to their compartments while being on the go. Sling it across your chest while biking to work, or put it in front to secure your belongings while stuck in a crowded train.

Messenger bags nowadays also come in different silhouettes and types of material so opt for structured and leather ones if you’re going to use them for work and go for canvas or nylon crossbody bags if you want a casual look.

2. Backpack

A schoolboy staple that has gotten out of its campus origins, backpacks have evolved from being a simple student pack to a must-have item in a man’s wardrobe.

Its roomy compartment provides ample storage ranging from small work desk essentials to bulky outdoor equipment while its twin shoulder straps allow anyone to multitask while wearing it. Backpacks nowadays have many variations so one wouldn’t have a hard time finding a piece for a smart business meeting or a day at the gym.

3. Briefcase

There are times when backpacks and messenger bags just don’t fit the scope of your business attire. Hence, a true gentleman knows the importance of also having a briefcase in his wardrobe as well.

Gone are the days when it briefcases were known to be a stiff, boxy structure. Briefcases today have softer silhouettes and are made ranging from water-resistant nylon to sustainable recycled polyester. Most have laptop sleeves now for storage as a replacement to the pen and paper of their banker days while others also come with a detachable sling strap for easier carrying.

4. Weekender

“All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy” is a saying that can easily be equated to your daily work outfits. Take a break from the hustle and bustle and go for a quick retreat with a reliable weekend bag.

Designed to fit clothing good for a short trip over the weekend, this travel bag is roomy enough to fit anyone’s essentials but small enough to be considered carry-on baggage on planes. Others also prefer a duffle bag for an easy shift of use from the gym to the road. Weekenders come in different material types so choose one that is made of twill if your idea of a weekend trip is more of an outdoor experience.

5. Toiletry Bag

The last thing that you may want to happen while traveling is to have a messy bag because of unorganized essentials — or worse yet, having all your necessities left in the hotel room when you return back home.

Also known as a Dopp kit, toiletry bags keep one’s grooming and toiletry essentials organized while maximizing space with the zip pockets that usually come with them. These travel bags typically also have side handles that allow you to easily carry them from one place to another.

How many of these must-have man bags do you have in your wardrobe? Which ones do you use the most? Let us know in the comments below!