Men’s bags are making a comeback.

Don’t believe it? Well, take the word of the designers, trendsetters and celebrities that have helped boost the appeal of bags for men.

Now, when we talk about bags, we aren’t only talking about the classic briefcases and backpacks that have never really gone out of favor with the mainstream gentleman. We are talking about a very wide variety of bags, totes, cases and more.

Even the fanny pack has experienced a revival. These handy little accessories were responsible for 25% of the fashion industry’s growth during the first 10 months of 2018, according to Quartz. They beat out more common accessories for men like backpacks and suitcases.

But the vast world of men’s bags doesn’t end with fanny packs. There are so many options out there that every man should look to take advantage and accessorize.

Why men should consider carry bags

Let’s leave fashion out of this for one second. Bags are useful. There’s no denying this.

So why don’t more men carry a wider variety of bags with them outside of backpacks and briefcases? Those can both be stylish in their own right and in appropriate settings, but they simply are not the best choice for all scenarios.

The best bags combine both fashion and function. You will want to make sure whatever bag you go with has enough storage space (but not too much) and features enough compartments to allow you to easily organize and protect items placed inside.

It’s also a good idea to pick bags that match the most prominent colors already found in your wardrobe. This is why blues, browns, tans, grays and black are popular colors for bags. Sure, there’s room to explore and expand the color palette a little, but it’s probably best to at least make sure your go-to bags are in more traditional colors.

How to choose the best casual and work bags

After applying those basic tips for when you are choosing a men’s bag, you will need to think about where you’ll be taking your bag. It’s time to consider the two most popular types of bags: casual and work.

Some bags may be used for both situations, others not so much. Nobody’s going to use a weekender as a briefcase, or vice versa, right? We would certainly hope not.

Casual bags are ideal for quick or routine outings

For casual purposes, there are many different types of smaller bags, wash kits and totes available. Consider selecting a bag that will fit only what you need and is not oversized. This can lend a more sophisticated and less clumsy look for the wearer. At the same time, clumsily stuffing a bag too full rather than upgrade to a larger bag.

A good casual bag for nearly any setting is made out of canvas or nylon. Canvas bags are certainly going to blend well with just about any type of casual outfit, while nylon might be called for when you want to step up in style.

Even some backpacks are favorites for casual outings, although backpacks shouldn’t be worn if you are wearing tailored or straight-fittign clothing that you do not want to become dishevled by the shoulder straps.

Here’s a quick guide to casual bags for men.

Backpacks

We’ll start with the most popular type of bag for men – the backpack.

Backpacks have never gone out of favor because they are so functional and easy to carry thanks to the two shoulder straps. While some backpacks are best used for quick getaways or visits to the gym, some higher-end options may fit well in a business-casual setting or for employees with longer commute times.

Either way, look for a backpack that will keep its contents dry, is breathable and will has compartments for what you’re placing inside, such as a sleeve for laptops or smaller compartments for toiletries.

Look for backpacks that level-up their look with leather if you plan on using the bag in a business casual office environment.

Weekend bags

Sometimes referred to as the duffel bag, a weekend or weekender bag is pretty easy to pick out thanks to its often bulkier look, two handles and single strap.

Weekenders are normally small enough to carry with only the handles, or can be slung on a shoulder. Either way, they aren’t meant to carry a heavy amount of items.

Weekend bags excel when used as carry-on luggage, as go-to bags for short vacations where you’re going away for the weekend or for trips to the gym. They are simple to pack and you’ll get a good amount of items inside without weighing down the bag.

Work and hybrid bags

Some men’s look best when taken into a more professional work environment. Many of these, though, can also be used in certain in-between situations where the professional appearance is suitable even in a casual setting.

Clean, simple looks and high-end leather will always suit you well with a work bag. Otherwise, many of the same rules for casual bags (traditional colors, don’t under or over stuff, etc.) apply here, too.

Messenger bags

The messenger bag is easily recognized by its one strap that fits comfortably on your shoulder or across your chest. They are both fashionable and functional thanks to the sizable amount of space they contain.

Messenger bags work well for any scenario in which a laptop, notebooks, books or folders need to be transported. This makes them great options for office workers and students.

Briefcases

Any professional who has to transport documents or similarly shaped, lightweight materials is likely familiar with the briefcase. While some briefcases come with a hard, protective shell, other softer varietes have now emerged, as well. Even these have a sturdier build than most other bag types, though.

Don’t skimp on leather quality when shopping for a new briefcase. Quality leather will help the bag hold up longer and keep its impressive, classic appearance.

Find even more bags

We have merely scratched the surface of the many types of men’s bags that are available, including here at Hansen’s Clothing.

Be sure to browse our many options to find the bag that both fits your style and provides the right amount of function – all while looking great thanks to high-quality, high-end materials that go into each of the bags we carry.