If you take a look around during your commute, you might have noticed that a majority of people carry backpacks to and from work. Rewind twenty years ago, and those backpacks would have been messenger bags. Their predecessor? The briefcase. This was a “go-to” accessory for those in the workplace for ages.
Business, office, and travel require people to transport both paper and electronic devices to and from home or a hotel. Briefcases, aptly named as they contained the briefs lawyers took to and from the courtroom, were once standard. One might argue that briefcases are a relic of the past. But in actuality, briefcases should be the accessory you carry with you whether you’re heading into the office, a meeting, or traveling.
Briefcases are great for cramped commutes, as they don’t take up as much room as a backpack. Not to mention, they look better and convey a sense of professionalism. We carry backpacks from kindergarten on, and although nostalgic, this is not a great choice to convey power, authority, and intelligence. A briefcase has other benefits as well.
Most professionals invest in clothing appropriate to his or her workplace. A briefcase will not cause wrinkles or unnecessary sweat on hot days as a backpack would. It will eliminate the friction that may end in a shorter life span for an investment such as business attire. Briefcases are the right choice for those who want to convey professionalism.
Quick Reference Guide:
Best Waterproof Briefcase – Filson Weatherproof Original Briefcase
Best Casual Briefcase – Bellroy Slim Work Bag
Best Briefcase for Commuters – Everyman Hideout 5-Way
Best Budget Friendly Briefcase – Leather Briefcase for Men Computer Bag
Best Durable Briefcase – Flison Original Men’s Briefcase
Best Briefcase for Accessories – YOGCI Men’s Leather Briefcase
Best Briefcase for Overall Value – Men’s Messenger/Briefcase Bag
Filson Weatherproof Original Briefcase (Best Weatherproof Briefcase)
The Filson Weatherproof Original Briefcase is our top pick for those who need a briefcase for all seasons. This company has been creating goods since 1897, and we can see why.
The briefcase is boot-grade leather, making it weather and salt water-resistant. Also, it has a zip closure with a storm flap. Made in the USA from quality vegetable-tanned leather, this product is versatile as a unisex product. The English leather bridled trim is crafted by Witchett and Craig, a tannery over 100 years in business.
Style and durability are evident as this briefcase comes with several features. The solid brass hardware and iconic Filson Bridle Leather body tabs evoke richness. This product has a removable, wool felt-lined crossbody strap. Additional features include a dry finish Tin Cloth interior with an internal laptop sleeve, two interior stow pockets, two interior patch pockets, and one interior slotted patch pocket.
Current pricing available here: Filson Weatherproof Briefcase
We also love this option from Travelpro: Platinum Elite Business Brief
Bellroy Slim Work Bag (Best Casual Briefcase)
If you are looking for less formality, our pick for the top casual briefcase is the Bellroy Slim Work Bag. Based in Australia, you can look and feel good about purchasing this briefcase. The company is a certified B Corp, meaning they are environmentally conscious and donate a portion of their revenue to charities.
The briefcase comes in black or gray, and they’ve designed it with minimalism in mind. It is lightweight with a slim silhouette and a zipper closure.
This briefcase is made to last and will hold laptops, pens, cables, phones and even your sunglasses. It has easy access through the external zip pocket with integrated organization. The padded laptop pocket ensures that your device will not bounce around. Also, this model comes with a removable shoulder strap. If you are looking for quality with a minimalist approach, the Bellroy Slim Work Bag is the right choice for you.
For the latest pricing, click here: Bellroy Slim Briefcase
Another notable slim option: Leather Italian Full Grain Briefcase
Everyman Hideout 5-Way (Best Briefcase for Commuters)
If you are a commuter, the best briefcase out there is the Everyman Hideout 5-Way Commuter Men’s Laptop, Bag, Backpack, and Tote. This briefcase can be a briefcase, backpack, sling bag, messenger bag, or clutch, as stated in the name. This versatility eliminates a need for any other bag.
Commuters can change out which type to use depending on their needs for the day. With a zipper closure, the Everyman Hideout has a lot of storage, including four packing cubes; one large, one medium, and two small.
The packing cubes are in an 18-liter velcro-lined main compartment. These compartments can hold everything you need for the office and travel. A laptop sleeve made of Wooltech protects your laptop, and there is no need to remove it from your bag for TSA.
This versatile briefcase has four straps and is waterproof with a tough ballistic nylon exterior. Any commuter will be more than satisfied purchasing the Everyman Hideout briefcase.
Current pricing available here from Amazon: Everyman Hideout 5-Way
Shop this item direct from EveryMan: Everyman Hideout 5-Way
Leather Briefcase for Men Computer Bag (Best Budget-Friendly Briefcase)
Buying a briefcase does not need to break the bank. The Leather Briefcase for Men is both fashionable and affordable. This briefcase is made of high-quality waterproof leather and has many amenities.
The fabric-lined briefcase comes with bronze metal accessories to hold more weight. A central laptop pocket, a back document pocket, and a front multi-functional pocket will meet all of your professional needs.
The multi-functional pocket is easy to access and has two small pockets, three pen holders, and four cardholders. The shoulder strap has double straps to keep it in place on your shoulder.
If you want versatility, the Leather Briefcase for Men has buckles on the adjustable straps that allow you to use it as a shoulder bag, briefcase, or crossbody bag.
Also, the belt on the back is convenient for travel. Overall, the Leather Briefcase for Men Computer Bag will give you quality and affordability.
Shop this item here: Leather Briefcase Computer Bag
Another notable option: Time Resistant Italian Leather Briefcase
Filson Original Briefcase (Best Durable Briefcase)
If you are looking for a tough, dependable briefcase that will stand the test of time, the Filson Original Briefcase is the right choice.
With a 100% cotton oil finish, rugged twill, and 100% bridle leather, this briefcase is high quality while maintaining toughness. Made in the USA, the Filson Original Briefcase is water-resistant with a storm flap and snap tab closures in bridle leather. The dual leather handles are removable and adjustable and can conform to a crossbody strap.
A two-way zipper with leather pulls opens to one main compartment, two full-length open pockets, one business card pocket, and a cell phone pocket. Dual side exterior pockets run full-width and can store anything you need to get to quickly.
Lastly, the Filson Original Briefcase is perfect for travel, as it meets carry-on requirements. If you are looking for a fashionable briefcase that will last for years, look no further than the Filson Original Briefcase.
For current pricing, click here: Filson Original Briefcase
Another notable option: Tumi-Alpha 3 Briefcase
YOGCI Men's Leather Briefcase (Best Briefcase for Accessories)
Made of 100% genuine Nappa leather, the YOGCI Men’s Leather Briefcase for Business Travel will suit all of your accessory needs and then some.
This briefcase with upgraded features includes YKK zippers, a soft cloth lining, one-time casting hardware, and a high-density elastic band. The features of this briefcase are numerous. The laptop padding pocket fits a 15.6-inch laptop, while the main compartment can accommodate a 17.3-inch laptop.
The front pockets will easily carry smaller items. Traditional briefcases typically have two big zipper compartments, while the YOGCI has three total. Also, the adjustable, detachable shoulder strap and handle provides use as a laptop bag, messenger bag, shoulder bag, or briefcase. Great for traveling, the backside belt will attach to travel luggage.
If you are an accessory person, the YOGCI Men’s Leather Briefcase for Business Travel will be perfect for you.
Click here for the latest pricing: YOGCI Men’s Briefcase
Another notable option : Tumi – Alpha Bravo Albany Briefcase
Men's Messenger Bag/Briefcase (Best Briefcase for Overall Value and Budget)
If you want a quality briefcase at a reasonable price, the Men’s Messenger Bag could be what you need for the office and traveling. Vintage-inspired, this briefcase consists of superior crazy horse cowhide leather, which makes it both durable and water-resistant.
The disordered wrinkles and scratches add to the retro look, but looks aren’t everything. This briefcase is both fashionable and functional. It sports loads of organizing features with a total of nine pockets; four inner and five outers.
The laptop sleeve will protect your device with a cohesive seal. This satchel bag has a removable and adjustable strap that will provide a suitable length, unique to you. Also, this allows you to choose between a business briefcase, sling bag, or crossbody bag. Both the strap and handle are padded, making a more comfortable carry.
Rest assured, your briefcase will have double secured closings consisting of magnetic snaps and zippers. If you are looking for the best deal in a briefcase, the Men’s Messenger Bag is the right choice for you.
Check out current pricing here: Messenger Bag Brief Case Combo
Another great option from Samsonite: The Original Attache Briefcase
Finding the Right Briefcase For You
While briefcases have not been as popular as they once were, they are making a comeback. A briefcase exudes professionalism and is the right choice for business, office, and travel. The good news is that there are numerous options available to you. Finding one that suits your needs should be relatively easy. When looking for a briefcase as unique as you, consider what features you need.
Some might want a briefcase that is durable and will last for years to come. In contrast, others might be looking for the right aesthetic or functionality. Your choice in a briefcase should suit both your needs and your personality. Look no further than the list above to find the right briefcase fit for you.
