It can be a struggle to find the perfect bag to carry to work each day. Something that is professional enough to fit in an office setting, large enough to fit all the essentials, comfortable enough to carry all day, and durable enough to last can feel overwhelming to find. Additionally, everyone has their preferences on what features they prioritize- some want lots of pockets, some want one main compartment, some will only consider a designer bag, while others can’t imagine spending that amount of money. Here are 9 options with different features to help you find the best bag for you.

Best Designer

Kate Spade New York All Day Large Zip-top Tote– $328

This chic option is simple yet stylish. The bag is large enough to hold a laptop and many other essentials, and sturdy enough that it won’t collapse under the weight. It has an interior pouch to protect your laptop, and zips closed to keep everything inside. While the price tag is on the high end, it can be an investment piece that will last for years to come. If the price tag still has you wavering, here’s a tip: Kate Spade, Coach, Michael Kors,  and many other designers have outlet websites and stores where merchandise is steeply discounted, so keep your eye out- you could score the same bag for a fraction of the price!

Best Deal

Dreubea Tote Shoulder Bag– $16

If the price of the last purse caused you physical pain, this budget option may be more your speed. This flexible bag comes with a small inside pocket to fit your phone and a magnetic closure. Additionally, if you love to change your bag to match every season or outfit, this might be the right bag for you. With a whopping 162 color and finish choices you have plenty to choose from!

Best Bargain with Pockets

Nubily Laptop Bag– $32

If you want a bargain bag but can’t give up on having a plethora of pockets, this selection could be a good fit for you. This structured, sturdy bag has space for both a tablet and a laptop, among many other things. The material is water-repellant to keep your things protected as well as organized and comes with a removable longer strap to allow you to choose how you carry it. There is also a diverse color selection, so you can certainly find one that fits your sense of style!

Most Versatile

Michael Kors Charlotte Large Top Zip Tote– $118

Looking for a bag that can pull double duty as an everyday purse? This Michael Kors bag may be just the one. With one inside pocket and a zip closure, this bag is simple but effective. It is medium in size, making it a great option to take you from a work tote that holds all of your professional essentials to a shoulder bag for running errands on your day off. Like Kate Spade, Michael Kors has an outlet website and stores that you can scour for their bags at a large markdown. However, they also have many bags- like this one- on Amazon at the discounted price you can find at their outlet!

Best For Travel

Longchamp Large Le Pliage Tote– $155

This bag from Parisian brand Longchamp has become a viral sensation for good reason. The bag is large enough to fit all the essentials, with a smartphone pocket on the inside and a zip closure to ensure the safety of your belongings. However, by and large the coolest feature of this bag is that it folds up into the size of a small book. This makes it nice for sticking in your suitcase to use later- and its durable, water-resistant material means it can survive whatever your plans may be.

Best to Use on a Plane

Béis The Work Tote– $118

If you don’t like the idea of packing your bag within a bag while traveling and instead want something that can go from work to the plane and beyond, this purse from luggage brand Béis is just the thing. The bag is a good size to use as your personal item on a flight, and even features a slit that allows it to slide onto your suitcase handle. Worried this feature will get in your way when you’re not traveling? Simply zip the bottom closed and it turns into an extra pocket. The bag zips closed, so you don’t have to worry about everything spilling out if it tips over on the plane or going through security, and features several interior pockets for organization, including a removable pouch and a key leash for easy access. The bag also comes with a removable crossbody strap that might come in handy for those long travel days.

Best Dupe

Lubardy Laptop Bag– $36

Love the Béis but don’t love the price tag? This bag is almost identical- for less than half the price. While it doesn’t have the pocket to slide on your suitcase handle and some smaller features like the key leash, the interior pockets, size, and overall look of the bag are nearly identical. It also comes with some extra features, such as the handles  being adjustable!

Most Features

Glass Ladder & Co Diana Convertible Backpack– $278

Looking for a bag that can truly do it all? This unassuming backpack makes sure to pack a punch on the features. It converts from a backpack to a crossbody without the hassle of changing straps, fits on your suitcase handle, and contains a padded laptop sleeve. It also has a waterproof lining to protect your things from damage while commuting or traveling. Though by far the most unique feature of this already versatile bag is the fact that it comes with two elastic cup pockets inside. Never worry about carrying your water bottle and juggling everything else again- just pop it in your bag and you’re good to go!

Best Backpack

ECOSUSI Vegan Leather Backpack– $52

Don’t love carrying a tote bag on your shoulder all day? This backpack may be just what you’re looking for. The vintage feel makes it much more stylish than your college backpack, but the interior pockets make it just as functional. It comes with a padded laptop pocket and space for anything else you may need, as well as adjustable straps, which means that this bag can hold all the essentials without breaking your back- or the bank.

Finding the best bag to use for work every day can be like looking for a needle in a haystack. There are so many choices out there that it can be difficult to know where to begin. However, once you understand your specific needs and preferences, it can be easier to prioritize what features you want and need. If you don’t see a bag that’s just right in these options, use them to narrow down what you’re looking for and you will be well on your way to finding the perfect work bag for you!

Kelsey Smith is a NeW Chapter Leader and NeW Spring 2023 Communications Intern.