Hybrid work arrangements have been gaining ground since early 2022, according to Statistics Canada. For many of us, that means toting our laptops and work essentials back and forth between our homes and the office every week, if not daily.
Finding the right work bag – one that looks good, fits a laptop and maybe a packed lunch, and is durable and comfortable enough for regular commutes – can be tough. Jean-Philippe Robert, head of product and CEO of Montreal-based accessories label Want Les Essentiels, says that “a bag is really personal and the comfort of every bag is also very personal, depending on your height and your body shape.”
To start, you want to find something that will protect your back. “You’ve got to make sure that the weight of the strap is fairly well distributed on your back,” says Robert. Details such as the length of the handles or straps will also affect how a bag feels, depending on whether you are going to primarily wear it crossbody or on your shoulder, or just hold it in your hand. “Having an adjustable strap is essential,” says Robert. “Everyone wears it differently.” He notes that a four-centimetre-wide strap is standard for larger or heavier bags, whereas strap widths can vary for lighter bags that carry less.
Robert suggests narrowing down the options by really thinking about what you will be using the bag for, and trying on your top picks in person, if possible. For example, a laptop pocket is a must-have feature for many hybrid workers, whereas frequent travellers might look for a secure passport pocket. “It’s all in how the pockets are placed on the bag, the different volumes,” he says. “So [look for] pockets, but maybe not too many pockets so you don’t get lost in your bag.”
Finally, the look and material of the bag are also important considerations. A synthetic leather bag, for example, will typically be more affordable than leather options. However, a leather bag will “age better” and gain “a natural patina” over time, says Robert. “A leather bag, if well taken care of, can last for many, many years, over 20, 25, 30 years.”
When it comes to maintaining your musculoskeletal health, the Canadian Chiropractic Association suggests using a backpack with padded straps. And when carrying a heavy tote or a satchel for extended periods, remember to alternate hands and shoulders to avoid overtaxing one side.
Six buys to try
Designed for travel but also great for everyday wear, this tote bag by Vancouver’s Monos is made with a scratch-resistant synthetic leather and features a 14-inch laptop compartment and a number of interior and exterior pockets. It also comes with a two-year limited warranty. Monos Metro tote, $285 through ca.monos.com.
This synthetic leather tote from Toronto-based Ela has a zipper closure to keep your items secure on the go. It’s roomy enough for a 16-inch laptop, and there are two exterior pockets for quick access to things such as your keys and cellphone. Ela Pocket tote, $188 through elahandbags.com.
Currently on sale, this sleek backpack is made in Canada using a pebbled-grain leather from a tannery near Venice, Italy. It’ll fit a 13-inch laptop and the one-inch-wide shoulder straps are adjustable. Roots Chelsea Pack 2.0 Cervino backpack, $328 through roots.com.
The Kaslo backpack from Vancouver-based Herschel, made from postconsumer water bottles, is available in two sizes and a variety of stylish colours. The 20 L Daypack includes a lined, 15/16-inch laptop sleeve, padded shoulder straps, and a number of compartments and pockets for things such as wireless earbuds and a water bottle. Herschel Kaslo Daypack, $150 through herschel.ca.
This fashionable tote, made with a textured Italian leather, can hold a 13-inch laptop. There’s a zip-top closure and multiple interior compartments. Banana Republic Italian leather Portfolio tote, $340 through bananarepublic.gap.com.
A classic style from Want Les Essentiels, the O’Hare bag is available in Italian leather as well as materials such as nylon and cotton canvas. It can be held as a top-handle bag or worn crossbody, and will fit a 15-inch laptop. Want Les Essentiels O’Hare organic-cotton canvas tote, $545 through wantlessessentiels.com.
