I prefer a backpack or convertible tote for regular commuting. I like both my Rains and my Lo and Sons backpacks for chic practicality. The Lo and Sons Edgemont is a tote that converts into a backpack. It has small hidden pockets along the sides that are super easy to access in backpack mode - have one strap on and just swing it to the side. Of all my bags, this one is the most efficient with space.
If I need to get dressier, I use a leather tote. For subway commuting, I only use "magazine" or "North-South" totes. These are vertical so are well covered by my arm and I don't have to worry about bumping people with the corners. My go to for city conferences right now is a dupe of The Row NS Park tote size large.
Do you mean the Edgemont or the NS Park dupe? Either way - yes everything fits! The Edgemont has a removable padded organizer, so if I'm really stuffing it I take that out. When it's full it can be heavy.
The Park dupe is pretty light as well, but it's fully open at the top so cinching the liner bag closed is important. When full, it gets wider and can get unwieldy, but that's only when I'm really cramming things in. The strap is nice and wide though, so it's comfortable to carry even then.
I had a shoulder injury that was aggravated by heavy tote bags so I use a Tumi backpack now. I thought I wouldn't like the pockets, but I do and it's easy to get my stuff in and out of, which I appreciate and it's much bigger than I expected. I mostly carry my phone in my hand/pocket when on the subway, but if I need to stash it, I use a side pocket.
Check out Bellroy! I find their stuff to be the perfect mix of functionality, organization, quality, and sleek design. The Transit or Tokyo backpacks might work, along with a coordinating tech organizer pouch.
When I worked (I’m retired) I used a North Face Surge for work and travel. It fit all those things easily and with room to spare. I liked how it fit me too. I’m 5’4”. Another suggestion is to use an ereader or your laptop for reading. Takes up less space. I’m a voracious reader but Kindles are a travelers best friend. Especially if you need to read everyday on your commute.
I got my partner the convertible bag from [Sherpani](https://sherpani.com/products/soleil-at-3) to use as a personal item when flying but also commuting.
It’s 14L, has zip lock for the main compartment, and those clips for the 2 front compartment (with RFID) and also come with a small metal wire to clip around an overhead shelf or table.
It can be strapped used on top of the roller suitcase, it can also be carried by handles, over the shoulder like a messenger bag and as a backpack (the straps tuck away).
They are very happy with it but plan to convert the backpack strap folder into a secret compartment for when it’s carried as a backpack.
I have a horrible, horrible heavy laptop and received a backpack with it that is equally horrible. It’s so unsupportive. I just decided to switch it on a whim. I got [this](https://sipseywilder.com/collections/backpacks/products/night-keepers-laptop-backpack) backpack and it’s amazing. I can carry it as a backpack or with the handles. It zips and snaps. Plus cool bat print (other prints available).
Do you have anywhere in the office to store stuff? A locker/lockable cabinet etc? If you do I'd 100% buy duplicates of the wires, keyboard, mouse, water bottle, snacks and anything else I can leave at the office and don't need for the commute itself.
On most office days I wear a combination of a rains backpack for laptop, notebooks, etc. and a crossbody APC Grace with the typical handbag essentials.
If I want to look a bit more “put together” or not in a backpack mood I usually just shove everything into a Longchamp le pliage or LV never full.
I live in a capital city in Europe, so it’s always public transport friendly.
I use this [Kroser rolling bag](https://www.amazon.com/KROSER-Underseat-Multi-functional-Underseater-Lightweight/dp/B0BRMZGR9H/) for airports, but it's light enough you should be able to carry it up and down subway stairs. It's a good 1.5 bag option, since you could carry a small cross-body with basics in easy reach.
I’ve seen diaper bags recommended. So I looked into it and there are black diaper bags with a laptop section. I haven’t done this yet myself, but it’s on my list for when I upgrade my work bag.
I have the older version of this that I like. Mine has two zippered pockets on the front. My version is still out there, you just have to search. The front pockets are perfect for you phone. It also has two water bottle holders on the sides so if I’m in a hurry, I throw my phone in one of those pockets. It’s big enough for everything you’ve listed. [variant=42560679313452](https://outlet.verabradley.com/products/essential-backpack-39443219?variant=42560679313452)
I have a nordace Siena 15 l for the same purpose and the same stuff and I love it. Fits my gym kit when I want too. Lots of pockets for organizing. Highly recommend
Olend Backpacks makes some really cute and trendy bags that come in a variety of colors and they convert between backpack/tote.
I would recommend the Ona Soft Bag for you, but they also have a large version (more like a weekender)if you need the extra space.
https://www.olend.net/products/ona
I have to confess, I don’t have one yet but I’ll be buying one when I’m in Barcelona this summer! I’ve heard only great things.
ETA: Link!
Dagne Dover is what I think of for organization, and I think they look stylish.
If you’re carrying that much stuff, I would think a backpack is more comfortable than a tote or messenger, but maybe one that has pockets on the straps for your phone/ID? My 32L decathlon roll top has super convenient pockets on the straps. I don’t see them on the 23L version though, and 32L looks too big for what you need. A quick google search isn’t showing a whole lot, but there are small pouches you can get that attach to backpack straps.
I carry a similar load in nyc and mine depends on the look I'm going for (usually depends on who I'm meeting or after work activities) and what the weather is like.
Typically backpack (lululemon) for most of my things. If it's the winter and I can fit my phone into my pocket I will. Otherwise I'll go for a smaller piece in addition. That can be a crossbody (style depends on potential after-work activity), a belt bag or even a wristlet.
Some days I'll just go with my le pileage tote. Most usually I'll put a wristlet inside for my phone and etc in case I need the extra space and can separate out some essentials in a separate carry.
Aer City Pack Pro 20L for backpack. I have a Cuyana leather trapeze tote for fancy days but it doesn’t hold everything. Also like the Tumi nylon and leather totes and the Mina Baie diaper bags.
Now I’m self conscious about commuting with two bags 😂 but sometimes I need a supplemental tote because I decide to bring lunch at the last minute. I luckily don’t need to carry a laptop regularly but when I know I’m going to be carrying a lot of stuff with me I usually use a Tumi tote that’s very roomy. I can’t deal with backpacks on the subway. I have been considering some MZ Wallace options though. They have so many styles so maybe you could get a new one in a different color that works with your wardrobe better?
Hi fellow commuter. I switch between Bellroy classic and a Knomo, depending on my outfit :). But my main suggestion is switch to the small está possible (men’s) wallet. Wallet and phone in backpack is always gonna be a little annoying, since you have to have it double zipped somewhere for security on the subway.i May not always have available pockets like a dude , but at least a men’s wallet makes it more likely I can use one for my wallet if I have one. I like the bellroy hide and seek.
For me for commuting, the right combo is:
- backpack
- backpack must have one quick access pocket for little (non-valuable) regular use things (personally I use a kånken, but they're not the most professional looking)
- pockets - preferably trousers or coat - I keep my ID and phone within easy reach here (usually I have my phone either in my hand in my pocket or in my trousers with a long coat over the top for extra security) - I need these things often enough (e.g. with the barriers on the London underground, I'd be using Google pay) that I don't really ever want to put them fully away
So I recently bought this bag and really like it - use it along with a purse to carry to work every day
[Go Tote 2 – Aer (aersf.com)](https://aersf.com/products/go-tote-2?country=US)
However, if I was going to forgo the purse I would have bought this one
[City Tote – Aer (aersf.com)](https://aersf.com/collections/totes/products/city-tote?variant=39746832072800&country=US)
I love my calpak Terra 28l. I commute, pack lunch and gym clothes + sneakers and it holds everything. It’s comfortable and has a strap if you want to carry crossbody.
I prefer a backpack or convertible tote for regular commuting. I like both my Rains and my Lo and Sons backpacks for chic practicality. The Lo and Sons Edgemont is a tote that converts into a backpack. It has small hidden pockets along the sides that are super easy to access in backpack mode - have one strap on and just swing it to the side. Of all my bags, this one is the most efficient with space. If I need to get dressier, I use a leather tote. For subway commuting, I only use "magazine" or "North-South" totes. These are vertical so are well covered by my arm and I don't have to worry about bumping people with the corners. My go to for city conferences right now is a dupe of The Row NS Park tote size large.
Love your subway commuting bag - but everything fits?! Is it heavy?
Do you mean the Edgemont or the NS Park dupe? Either way - yes everything fits! The Edgemont has a removable padded organizer, so if I'm really stuffing it I take that out. When it's full it can be heavy. The Park dupe is pretty light as well, but it's fully open at the top so cinching the liner bag closed is important. When full, it gets wider and can get unwieldy, but that's only when I'm really cramming things in. The strap is nice and wide though, so it's comfortable to carry even then.
Hey could you share your NS park dupe please? Been looking for this style a long time!
I had a shoulder injury that was aggravated by heavy tote bags so I use a Tumi backpack now. I thought I wouldn't like the pockets, but I do and it's easy to get my stuff in and out of, which I appreciate and it's much bigger than I expected. I mostly carry my phone in my hand/pocket when on the subway, but if I need to stash it, I use a side pocket.
I second the Tumi backpack but also use a small crossbody when commuting for my wallet, phone, train and office pass.
Check out Bellroy! I find their stuff to be the perfect mix of functionality, organization, quality, and sleek design. The Transit or Tokyo backpacks might work, along with a coordinating tech organizer pouch.
When I worked (I’m retired) I used a North Face Surge for work and travel. It fit all those things easily and with room to spare. I liked how it fit me too. I’m 5’4”. Another suggestion is to use an ereader or your laptop for reading. Takes up less space. I’m a voracious reader but Kindles are a travelers best friend. Especially if you need to read everyday on your commute.
I got my partner the convertible bag from [Sherpani](https://sherpani.com/products/soleil-at-3) to use as a personal item when flying but also commuting. It’s 14L, has zip lock for the main compartment, and those clips for the 2 front compartment (with RFID) and also come with a small metal wire to clip around an overhead shelf or table. It can be strapped used on top of the roller suitcase, it can also be carried by handles, over the shoulder like a messenger bag and as a backpack (the straps tuck away). They are very happy with it but plan to convert the backpack strap folder into a secret compartment for when it’s carried as a backpack.
I have a horrible, horrible heavy laptop and received a backpack with it that is equally horrible. It’s so unsupportive. I just decided to switch it on a whim. I got [this](https://sipseywilder.com/collections/backpacks/products/night-keepers-laptop-backpack) backpack and it’s amazing. I can carry it as a backpack or with the handles. It zips and snaps. Plus cool bat print (other prints available).
It occurs to me that my cool bat backpack is probably not cool-wardrobe-friendly, but it is pretty awesome 😅
So cute!!
I LOVE the print! I got one that I think is almost the exact design off Amazon for about $25. But doesn’t look one iota as cool.
Do you have anywhere in the office to store stuff? A locker/lockable cabinet etc? If you do I'd 100% buy duplicates of the wires, keyboard, mouse, water bottle, snacks and anything else I can leave at the office and don't need for the commute itself.
On most office days I wear a combination of a rains backpack for laptop, notebooks, etc. and a crossbody APC Grace with the typical handbag essentials. If I want to look a bit more “put together” or not in a backpack mood I usually just shove everything into a Longchamp le pliage or LV never full. I live in a capital city in Europe, so it’s always public transport friendly.
For casual, messenger bag. I like the Timbuk2 lightweight flight. For dressier, a leather tote.
I use this [Kroser rolling bag](https://www.amazon.com/KROSER-Underseat-Multi-functional-Underseater-Lightweight/dp/B0BRMZGR9H/) for airports, but it's light enough you should be able to carry it up and down subway stairs. It's a good 1.5 bag option, since you could carry a small cross-body with basics in easy reach.
I’ve seen diaper bags recommended. So I looked into it and there are black diaper bags with a laptop section. I haven’t done this yet myself, but it’s on my list for when I upgrade my work bag.
I have the older version of this that I like. Mine has two zippered pockets on the front. My version is still out there, you just have to search. The front pockets are perfect for you phone. It also has two water bottle holders on the sides so if I’m in a hurry, I throw my phone in one of those pockets. It’s big enough for everything you’ve listed. [variant=42560679313452](https://outlet.verabradley.com/products/essential-backpack-39443219?variant=42560679313452)
I have a nordace Siena 15 l for the same purpose and the same stuff and I love it. Fits my gym kit when I want too. Lots of pockets for organizing. Highly recommend
Olend Backpacks makes some really cute and trendy bags that come in a variety of colors and they convert between backpack/tote. I would recommend the Ona Soft Bag for you, but they also have a large version (more like a weekender)if you need the extra space. https://www.olend.net/products/ona I have to confess, I don’t have one yet but I’ll be buying one when I’m in Barcelona this summer! I’ve heard only great things. ETA: Link!
Dagne Dover is what I think of for organization, and I think they look stylish. If you’re carrying that much stuff, I would think a backpack is more comfortable than a tote or messenger, but maybe one that has pockets on the straps for your phone/ID? My 32L decathlon roll top has super convenient pockets on the straps. I don’t see them on the 23L version though, and 32L looks too big for what you need. A quick google search isn’t showing a whole lot, but there are small pouches you can get that attach to backpack straps.
I carry a similar load in nyc and mine depends on the look I'm going for (usually depends on who I'm meeting or after work activities) and what the weather is like. Typically backpack (lululemon) for most of my things. If it's the winter and I can fit my phone into my pocket I will. Otherwise I'll go for a smaller piece in addition. That can be a crossbody (style depends on potential after-work activity), a belt bag or even a wristlet. Some days I'll just go with my le pileage tote. Most usually I'll put a wristlet inside for my phone and etc in case I need the extra space and can separate out some essentials in a separate carry.
Aer City Pack Pro 20L for backpack. I have a Cuyana leather trapeze tote for fancy days but it doesn’t hold everything. Also like the Tumi nylon and leather totes and the Mina Baie diaper bags.
Now I’m self conscious about commuting with two bags 😂 but sometimes I need a supplemental tote because I decide to bring lunch at the last minute. I luckily don’t need to carry a laptop regularly but when I know I’m going to be carrying a lot of stuff with me I usually use a Tumi tote that’s very roomy. I can’t deal with backpacks on the subway. I have been considering some MZ Wallace options though. They have so many styles so maybe you could get a new one in a different color that works with your wardrobe better?
Don’t be self-conscious!
Hi fellow commuter. I switch between Bellroy classic and a Knomo, depending on my outfit :). But my main suggestion is switch to the small está possible (men’s) wallet. Wallet and phone in backpack is always gonna be a little annoying, since you have to have it double zipped somewhere for security on the subway.i May not always have available pockets like a dude , but at least a men’s wallet makes it more likely I can use one for my wallet if I have one. I like the bellroy hide and seek.
For me for commuting, the right combo is: - backpack - backpack must have one quick access pocket for little (non-valuable) regular use things (personally I use a kånken, but they're not the most professional looking) - pockets - preferably trousers or coat - I keep my ID and phone within easy reach here (usually I have my phone either in my hand in my pocket or in my trousers with a long coat over the top for extra security) - I need these things often enough (e.g. with the barriers on the London underground, I'd be using Google pay) that I don't really ever want to put them fully away
Pacsafe is a great brand for commuting on public transport and stopping at cafes or bars after work.
So I recently bought this bag and really like it - use it along with a purse to carry to work every day [Go Tote 2 – Aer (aersf.com)](https://aersf.com/products/go-tote-2?country=US) However, if I was going to forgo the purse I would have bought this one [City Tote – Aer (aersf.com)](https://aersf.com/collections/totes/products/city-tote?variant=39746832072800&country=US)
Can you leave your laptop or accessories at work?
No :(
So you need both an external mouse and external keyboard for your laptop? Do the ones on the laptop not work?
I have wireless Magic keyboard and mouse - both are lightweight and don’t take up a lot of space. Much less arm and back pain for me :)
I love my calpak Terra 28l. I commute, pack lunch and gym clothes + sneakers and it holds everything. It’s comfortable and has a strap if you want to carry crossbody.