As Londoners, you spend a significant amount of your time travelling on public transportation. Whether you are heading to work, out for a day in the city, or just commuting to and from various activities, you need a reliable bag to carry your essentials. However, not just any bag will do. When it comes to commuting in London, certain handbag styles rise above the rest. The best handbag for you depends on your individual needs and style, but certain features can definitely make your commute smoother and more enjoyable.
Tote Bags: The Quintessential Work Bag
When you think of the traditional work bag, a tote probably comes to mind. Totes are spacious, versatile, and come in a variety of colors and materials, but the best ones for commuting are often made of sturdy, durable leather.
Totes have a large interior that can comfortably fit a laptop, notebooks, a water bottle, and even a change of clothes for the gym or a dinner date after work. Many totes also feature interior and exterior pockets, perfect for storing your phone, keys, wallet, and other small items you need to access quickly.
If you love a classic, timeless style, a leather tote in a neutral color like black, brown, or navy is a great choice. However, if you enjoy making a statement with your accessories, don’t be afraid to choose a tote in a bold color or with unique details. Just remember, the key to a great tote is not just about the color or style, but also about how it can make your commute more convenient and less stressful.
Backpacks: For the Active Commuter
If you lead an active lifestyle and find yourself frequently running to catch a bus or climbing stairs at the tube station, a backpack could be your perfect companion. Backpacks allow for hands-free commuting, which can be a game-changer when navigating London’s busy public transport system.
Backpacks come in a variety of sizes, but for commuting, a medium to large size is often best. This size will allow you to carry your laptop, a change of clothes, and other daily essentials. When choosing a backpack, pay special attention to the strap. A padded, adjustable strap will ensure comfort during your commute, no matter how heavy your load.
Although backpacks can sometimes be viewed as less professional, many brands now offer sleek, stylish options perfect for the working professional. Look for a backpack in a durable material like leather or canvas, and opt for a neutral color to maintain a professional appearance.
Crossbody Bags: The Perfect Balance
For those who do not need to carry a laptop or large items, a crossbody bag provides the perfect balance of convenience and style. Crossbody bags allow for hands-free commuting but are typically smaller and more stylish than a typical backpack.
When selecting a crossbody bag for commuting, look for one with multiple compartments. This will allow you to keep your items organized and easy to find. Also, choose a bag with an adjustable strap to ensure a comfortable fit.
Leather is a popular material for crossbody bags due to its durability, but don’t be afraid to explore other materials and colors. A statement crossbody bag can add a pop of color to your outfit and express your personal style.
Shoulder Bags: Classic and Chic
Shoulder bags are a classic choice for a reason. They offer a blend of style and functionality that can be perfect for commuting in London.
Look for a shoulder bag with a roomy interior and multiple pockets for organization. An exterior pocket can be a lifesaver when you need to quickly access your travel card or phone.
Leather remains the top choice for shoulder bags due to its durability, but don’t limit yourself. Canvas, suede, and even faux leather can offer a stylish and practical alternative.
Travel Bags: For the Long-Distance Commuter
Lastly, if your commute involves a long-distance journey on a train or coach, a travel bag can be a worthy investment. These bags are designed to hold a lot of items, making them perfect for those who need to carry everything from a laptop to a change of clothes.
Look for travel bags that have a dedicated laptop compartment and multiple other pockets for organization. Also, consider the weight of the bag when empty. Since you’ll be carrying a lot, choosing a lightweight bag can make your commute easier.
Whatever type of bag you choose – tote, backpack, crossbody, shoulder bag or travel bag – remember that the best bag is one that fits your lifestyle, meets your needs, and makes your commute on London’s public transport a little bit easier.
Messenger Bags: A Unisex Solution for the Busy Commuter
Messenger bags have become a popular choice among professionals, students and even cyclists for their functionality and easy-on-the-go access. Originally designed for courier work, these bags are now a staple for London commuters as they are both practical and stylish.
The primary advantage of a messenger bag is its spaciousness, which allows for the safe transport of items like laptops, tablets, books and more. Like the tote bag and travel bag, many messenger bags come with a dedicated laptop compartment and a multitude of pockets for organisation, including an exterior pocket for items like your travel card or phone.
To ensure comfort, especially when transporting heavier items, it’s essential to select a messenger bag with a padded, adjustable shoulder strap. This will allow you to distribute the weight of the bag evenly and reduce strain on your shoulder.
Messenger bags are often perceived as the unisex alternative to traditional work bags. As such, they come in various materials, including leather and canvas. A leather tote messenger bag, for instance, is an excellent investment due to its durability and timeless appeal.
When choosing a messenger bag, remember to consider your needs and personal style. If you’re someone who prefers a relaxed, casual look, a canvas messenger bag might be your best choice. On the other hand, if you have a more traditional or professional working environment, a leather messenger bag could be more appropriate.
Camera Bags: For the Creative Commuter
If you are a creative professional or an enthusiast who carries a camera and other photographic equipment, a camera bag might be perfect for you. Camera bags are designed to protect your gear while providing easy access to it.
While camera bags are traditionally used to transport camera gear, many commuters have found them to be quite useful for carrying everyday items. Camera bags often come with a variety of compartments and pockets, which can be used to keep your items well-organised.
These bags come with a sturdy zip top closure for secure storage and a padded, adjustable strap for comfortable handling. Many also feature water-resistant materials for added protection against unpredictable London weather.
Camera bags are available in a range of styles and sizes to fit a variety of needs. Designer brands such as Tory Burch and Dagne Dover offer stylish camera bags that can double as work bags for women. These are best for those who need to carry their equipment without compromising on style.
Similar to other bags, choosing the best camera bag comes down to your specific needs. Whether you’re a professional photographer or a casual shutterbug, it’s essential to select a bag that will protect your equipment and fit in with your personal style.
Conclusion
Whether you prefer a tote, backpack, crossbody, shoulder bag, travel bag, messenger bag, or even a camera bag, the right choice will depend on your lifestyle, personal style, and the items you need to carry. Opt for a bag with plenty of space, a sturdy material like leather or canvas, and a comfortable, adjustable strap. The right bag can make your commute on London’s public transport much more enjoyable.
Remember, the best bag for you is one that goes beyond just being an accessory. It should serve as a functional tool that ensures your essentials are well-organised and easy to access, making your daily commute smoother, more enjoyable, and, more importantly, more stylish. So whether you’re catching a bus at Baker Street, hopping on the tube at Oxford Circus, or catching a train from King’s Cross, make sure you do it in style with the best bag for your commuting needs.
