Messenger bags are a great option for those who cycle regularly, as they’re more comfortable to bike with than other style bags. Waterproof messenger bags keep your belongings safe even during a downpour and offer a unique and stylish approach to carrying your essential belongings.
Whether you’re an active traveler looking for a rugged pack to store your belongings, or a business buff seeking a more attractive commute bag, there’s an option here for you!
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Price: $199.00 Shop at Amazon | Shop now Read our review |
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Price: $194.00 Shop now at Filson | Shop now Read our review |
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Price: $625.00 Shop now at Filson | Shop now Read our review |
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1. Timbuk2 Especial Stash Weatherproof Messenger Bag
Pros:- 100% PVC design is effectively weatherproof - laptop compartment is fully waterproof
- 17-Liter capacity featuring a 15-inch laptop sleeve
- Weather-resistant coated zippers and seam-sealed construction further boost waterproofing
- Wide assortment of pockets, sleeves, and clips including a Napoleon pocket with key keeper
- Reflective logos and U-shaped zipper pulls for added visibility while cycling at night
- Magnetic buckle closure
- Includes a grab handle and a crossbody strap with daisy chain, beer tiki, and quick-release buckle
- Includes a lifetime warranty
Cons:- Fairly expensive option
- Longterm integrity of the grab handle is questionable
- No color options
The Timbuk2 Especial Stash Weatherproof Messenger Bag is described as the brand’s most rugged messenger, offering an ultra-tough PVC design and a wide assortment of awesomely practical features.
Featuring a 17-liter capacity, the Especial measures 17.7 by 12.2 by 4.33 inches, so it’s a relatively slim and low-profile option. Equipped with a 15-inch laptop sleeve and a wide assortment of pockets, storage sleeves, and clips, this unit offers a very extensive degree of organization potential for its size.
The 100% PVC design employed here is effectively weatherproof while the laptop compartment is fully waterproof. Weather-resistant coated zippers and a seam-sealed construction go on to further boost waterproofing, so rest assured your belongings are safe in here.
In regards to carrying, the brand has included a grab handle as well as a crossbody strap with a daisy chain, beer tiki, and a quick-release buckle. The long-term integrity of the carry handle is questionable, so try and avoid hauling this bag around from that carry-point if it’s especially full and heavy.
Not to be ignored when discussing messenger bags, the brand has included reflective logos and U-shaped zipper pulls for added visibility while cycling at night.
Find more Timbuk2 Especial Stash Weatherproof Messenger Bag information and reviews here.
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2. Filson Dry Messenger Bag
Price: $194.00Pros:- Fully waterproof design built with waterproof 840D nylon TPU and a RF-welded construction
- 25 Liter, large single compartment with interior and exterior pockets
- Cinching roll-top closure with storm flap
- Highly resistant to punctures and abrasions
- Removable, adjustable shoulder strap and grab handle built from heavy-duty nylon webbing for multiple carry options
Cons:- Expensive option
- Lacks exterior storage and organization potential
- No color options
The Filson Dry Messenger Bag is a no-nonsense, fully waterproof option built with an 840D nylon TPU and RF-welded construction. Designed for high abrasion and puncture resistance in addition to keeping your belongings bone-dry on everyday commutes and adventures alike, this is a highly reliable messenger bag you’ll own for years of service.
Filson has engineered this bag with a 25-liter large single compartment, featuring both interior and exterior pockets. There’s ample room for gear, but not a plethora of storage pockets and sleeves when compared to some other options, so if you prefer to have a wide assortment of storage spaces, this may not be the bag for you.
Where the Dry Messenger Bag really excels, is its nearly unparalleled integrity. The 840D nylon tarpaulin TPU fabric is furthermore coated with thermoplastic polyurethane, a flexible, durable, and impenetrable barrier to water – so weather doesn’t stand a chance at entering this bad boy.
The removable and adjustable shoulder strap and a built-in grab handle are furthermore built from heavy-duty nylon webbing – Filson has ensured this workhorse is tough on all fronts.
Find more Filson Dry Messenger Bag information and reviews here.
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3. Filson Rugged Twill Computer Bag
Price: $625.00Pros:- This bag is super well made and durable - it's what you get when you buy Filson
- Very attractive aesthetic
- High organization potential
- Filson's classic cotton oil finish repels water
- 100% genuine bridle leather
Cons:- Very expensive
- Fairly heavy option
- Strapping is not as comfortable as some of the competition for longer bike rides
Filson is known for being a wildly expensive brand, but I just can’t agree with that opinion. While many of their bags may have a ridiculously steep price tag, they’re a top-quality brand that crafts incredible, long-lasting, and highly functional products. This is the sort of gear you’ll give to your grandchild someday!
The Rugged Twill Computer Bag is a killer messenger-style bag that’s great for a wide range of applications from daily commutes to international travel. Offering a timeless look and mindfully designed schematic for packing all your essentials, this is an investment purchase you’ll no doubt be pleased with.
The classic oilcloth exterior effectively repels water and has an awesome classic aesthetic – the best part about Filson bags built from this fabric is how they age over the years – they really develop some character!
There’s a high degree of organization with this unit making it a great option for those who struggle to keep their bag neat and tidy. There’s a whole array of large and small interior and exterior pockets and even some spaces for tinier items like business cards, chargers, and pens.
The brass zippers, leather accents, and strapping are all of the utmost top quality. You’ll be able to tell the difference right away when you pick up anything Filson. No doubt a long-lasting, classy option of waterproof messenger bag.
Find more Filson Twill Padded Laptop Briefcase information and reviews here.
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4. Chrome Industries Mini Metro Messenger Bag
Pros:- 20.5-Liter, low-profile and lightweight option weighs just 2.4 pounds
- Built with an abrasion-resistant 1050 denier military-grade nylon exterior and 22oz truck tarpaulin liner
- 3 Exterior pockets and one interior pocket in addition to the padded laptop sleeve
- EVA foam-padded shoulder strap
- Quick-release buckle enables easy removal of the bag and features an integrated bottle opener
- Cross-chest load stabilizer further boosts mobility
- Reflective accents on the straps for enhanced visibility at night
- Daisy-chain mounting loops on the strap for attaching a bike light and other accessories externally
- Sharp color selection
Cons:- Fairly expensive option
- Only accommodates laptops up to 13 inches
- Lacks a grab-handle
The Chrome Industries Mini Metro Messenger Bag is a slim, low-profile, and lightweight option measuring 12 by 20 by 7 inches, and weighing in at just 2.4 pounds. Featuring three exterior pockets and one interior pocket in addition to the padded laptop sleeve, this handy little messenger bag offers a great degree of organization potential for its roughly 20-liter size.
Built with an abrasion-resistant 1050 denier military-grade nylon exterior and 22oz truck tarpaulin liner, the brand has built this bag to be effectively waterproof, so no wetness should ever breach its contents.
Our favorite feature is the EVA foam-padded shoulder strap which includes a practical quick-release buckle, (almost like a seat belt clip) enabling quick and easy removal of the bag. There is also a bottle opener integrated into the strap, as well as a cross-chest load stabilizer to further boost mobility while cycling.
Reflective accents are located on the straps for enhanced visibility at night, while daisy-chain mounting loops are built into the strap for securing a bike light or other accessories externally. In other words, the brand has put an emphasis on safety here.
Our only real complaint here is the smaller size of the laptop sleeve, only able to accommodate laptops up to 13 inches.
Available in a decent array of sharp aesthetics, you can even select a Mini Metrop Messenger Bag that precisely suits your style!
Find more Chrome Industries Mini Metro Messenger Bag information and reviews here.
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5. Osprey Metron 18 Bike Commuter Messenger Bag
Pros:- 18-Liter bag built from rugged bluesign® approved 500D recycled high tenacity nylon
- Front panel zip organization pocket with small drop-in pockets
- Internal padded laptop/document sleeve fits most 16-inch laptops
- Hook-and-loop flap closure with dual adjustable aluminum hooks
- Loop for bike light attachment and reflective graphics for enhanced visibility while cycling
- AirScape back panel provides great comfort, support, and breathability
- External small zip pocket and internal mesh organizer sleeves
- Dual internal grab handles
- Extra aluminum buckle on the shoulder strap helps to stabilize it for maximum mobility
- Impressively lightweight at just 2.1 pounds
Cons:- Messenger bag is not fully waterproof without the included rain cover
- Organization potential is excellent, but main compartment does not accommodate larger items very well
- Limited color selection
The Osprey Metron 18 Bike Commuter Messenger Bag is a rugged-built and highly capable option offering an impressive degree of organization potential through its extensive pocket schematic. While the size of the main compartment might not be ideal for storing larger items, if you require a bag with loads of different storage spaces for mindfully organizing all your essentials, definitely give this option a look!
Measuring 11.81 by 18.9 by 7.09 inches and offering 18 liters of space, the Metron is a wonderful balance between streamlined portability and capacity in our opinion. Equipped with a front panel zip organization pocket, an external small zip pocket, and internal mesh organizer sleeves, there’s truly a designated space for all of your gear here in addition to the padded laptop sleeve.
Constructed from rugged bluesign® approved 500D recycled high-tenacity nylon, this bag option is not inherently waterproof on its own but does include an easily-deployable high-vis rain cover for instant reliable waterproofing.
In regard to comfortability while cycling, the brand has equipped the Metron with their AirScape back panel for enhanced comfort, support, and breathability. An extra aluminum buckle on the shoulder strap goes on to help further stabilize the bag for maximum mobility, so this is truly a high-speed, low-drag option. A loop for bike light attachment and reflective graphics for enhanced visibility while cycling are also included here as an added safety measure.
Wonderfully lightweight at just 2.1 pounds and stacked with practical features for conquering your daily commute and beyond, Osprey has no doubt engineered a winner with this one!
Find more Osprey Metron 18 Bike Commuter Messenger Bag information and reviews here.
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6. Osprey FlapJack Courier Day Pack
Pros:- Lots of pockets for organization
- Large side pocket that fits a 32 ounce water bottle
- Comfortable shoulder strap
- Reflective accents
Cons:- Water resistant, not fully waterproof
- Not as much color variety as other brands
- Fairly expensive option
The Osprey Men’s FlapJack Courier Day Pack from one of the most trusted names in backpacks and bags garners top marks for its stylish appearance and multiple pockets that help keep things organized.
There’s a laptop sleeve inside, a main pocket, and a zippered pocket, plus storage pockets for smaller items. Under the flap there are two more zippered pockets, and the exterior water bottle pocket is large enough to hold a 32 ounce Nalgene bottle.
The bag is structured enough that you won’t have to dig through it to find items, yet still soft. Users said they could fit their laptop, a binder, a notebook, a change of clothes, their lunch, and pens, keys, and smaller items without issue.
The messenger bag has an adjustable shoulder strap and a top carry handle. Two cool features, especially for bikers or those who find themselves walking home from work after dark, are the reflective graphics and blinker light.
Find more Osprey Women’s FlapJill Courier Day Pack information and reviews here.
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7. NEWHEY Canvas Messenger Bag
Pros:- Stylish, built from quality material
- Padded laptop sleeve
- Easy to organize thanks to multiple dividers and pockets
- Removable shoulder strap
Cons:- Could be more spacious
- Highly water resistant, but not fully waterproof
- Aesthetic is not for everyone
This canvas bag is made of superior cowhide crazy horse leather and water-resistant waxed canvas. It’s built to last long through the elements, yet looks more formal than other waterproof sport-style messenger bags.
The interior padded laptop sleeve fits up to a 15.6-inch laptop. There are also several dividers to split up your notebooks, a wallet, a water bottle, or whatever else you’re carrying. Inside there’s a zip pocket on one side, and open pockets for a cell phone and pens on the other side.
The wide shoulder strap is comfortable and can be removed to use the bag as a briefcase. The flap attaches with magnetic buttons. Those who own the bag find it both stylish and functional, with some calling it “beyond expectations” for the price.
The main complaint is that it could have more space, so be mindful of this detail if you’re seeking a high-capacity unit!
Find more NEWHEY Canvas Messenger Bag information and reviews here.
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8. Loiee Classic Canvas Mesenger Bag
Pros:- Excellent value, budget option
- Durable, attractive canvas material
- Functional pockets
- Several available color options
Cons:- No exterior water bottle pocket
- Basic appearance
- Strapping is not terribly impressive
Here’s a great value waterproof messenger bag by Loiee that’s well worth the cost if your budget is tight.
This is a very straightforward unit that works as a great work bag. It’s smaller 14-inch size means most laptops won’t fit in this option, but it’s still a great organizer for your tablet, notebooks, documents and more.
There are plenty of dividers and zippered mesh pockets to keep all your everyday essentials organized, and several different ways to carry!
There is even an array of different colors to choose from! No doubt a great budget option by Loiee!
Find more Mission Rummy 27L Waterproof Messenger Bag information and reviews here.
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9. Timbuk2 Classic Messenger Bag
Pros:- Waterproof exterior and liner
- Flaps fold in for extra weatherproofing
- Variety of sizes and colors
- Shoulder strap optimized for bikers
Cons:- No left handed option, and the strap could fit awkwardly
- Bag doesn’t stand up on its own
- Not a ton of organization potential
This 100 percent polyethylene waterproof messenger bag by Timbuk2 comes in a variety of sizes and dozens of colors.
Inside, you’ll find a pocket for a laptop, as well as a larger, more open pocket. There’s also an internal organizer for pens, phones, keys, and other small things.
The bag has an adjustable, cross-body shoulder strap as well as a smaller handle. Its buckles are partially concealed when closed. Not only is the outer material waterproof, but also the interior liner. The flap corners fold into place, allowing you to secure your belongings for extra weatherproofing.
The small size bag is large enough to hold a laptop and a few notebooks or folders, while the medium will be better for those who also carry gym clothes or other larger items.
Find more Timbuk2 Classic Messenger Bag information and reviews here.
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10. Timbuk2 Command Laptop Messenger Bag
Pros:- TPU lined, weatherproof flap
- TSA- compliant laptop portage
- Sharp, professional aesthetic
- Great minimalist messenger bag for your laptop and essentials
- External, zippered access
- Wide color selection
Cons:- Hook and loop closure can be frustrating
- Expensive option
- Lacks organization portential
People praise this bag for its brilliant portability, simplicity of design and sharp aesthetic. If you’re looking for a somewhat minimalist messenger bag for your laptop and daily essentials, this is an excellent go to.
There’s not a high degree of organization with this messenger bag, it’s more or less a large internal compartment with a few zippered spaces for stashing documents, chargers, etc. Look elsewhere if your current bag is a cluttered mess and you’re looking for something to sort everything out.
That being said, the simplicity of the internal and external schematic is perfect for those who travel light.
The polyester fabric used to build this messenger bag is highly water resistant, but not waterproof in an absolute downpour. The TPU lined weather flap however will keep the contents dry even in some heavy rain. It’s also worth mentioning the hook and loop closure might take a little getting used to if you’re not familiar with the system.
All in all, a sharp looking professional, more or less waterproof messenger bag that’s perfect for the daily commuter!
Find more Timbuk2 Command Laptop Messenger Bag information and reviews here.
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11. Timbuk2 Stark Messenger Bag
Pros:- Integrated rain cover can be deployed in seconds and makes this bag totally waterproof
- Reflective accents and flashlight strap keep you safe riding at night
- Magnetic closure pockets
- Great quality, easily adjustable strapping
- High degree of organization
Cons:- Expensive option
- Limited color selection
- Aesthetic is high speed low drag and not particularly stylish depending on your taste
This is one neat messenger bag from Timbuk2. If you have the funds to spring for the Stark Messenger Bag, don’t think twice – this bag is totally waterproof, incredibly simple to pack and wear and built with an impressive organization potential.
This 14-liter waterproof messenger bag is designed to accommodate up to a 15-inch laptop and a ton of other items and accessories. There are a few additional magnetic closure pockets underneath the main flap in addition to the main bag compartment totaling to quite a bit of storage space.
The zip-away removable rainfly is built into the bag and can be deployed in seconds in the event of a sudden downpour. It’s essentially just a full enclosure rain fly that keeps the bag’s contents bone dry. Truly a brilliant design that makes this bag more waterproof than the vast majority of the competition.
Reflective mesh accents keep you visible at night, and there’s also a built-in loop for attaching a bike light. The ambidextrous shoulder strap has a solid clp in the middle and carries quite nicely making this the ultimate cycling messenger bag.
The main material of the bag is 940D Cordura nylon – hence the higher price tag. This unit is truly built to last so plan on owning this one for years of commuting, business trips, and travel!
Find more Timbuk2 Stark Messenger Bag information and reviews here.
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12. ibagbar Water Resistant Messenger Bag
Pros:- Highly affordable
- Stylish neutral colors
- Nine pockets for high degree of organization
- One year warranty
Cons:- Water resistant, not entirely waterproof
- Not as spacious as some reviewers hoped
- Boring color options if you like to make a loud statement
This sleek water-resistant messenger bag from ibagbar comes in several neutral colors and is highly affordable, especially for the quality.
The heavy-duty oxford fabric is water resistant and durable, and the buckles are of solid quality as well.
It has nine pockets, including a main zipper pocket, a front zipper pocket, a front button pocket, two side pockets, two open inner pockets, one zipper inner pocket, and a back zipper pocket. It can hold up to a 15-inch laptop. The cross body shoulder strap is padded and removable.
The bag comes with a one year warranty. While it may not be as durably constructed as others on this list, its low price tag makes this option more than a great value!
Find more ibagbar Water Resistant Messenger Bag information and reviews here.
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13. DACHEE Waterproof Messenger Bag
Pros:- Highly affordable
- Multiple designs
- Can attach to a suitcase handle
- Anti-shock bottom
Cons:- Not as durable as other bags
- Only patterns, no solid colors
- Strap is not waterproof
The DACHEE Waterproof Messenger Bag is a great option for someone who likes a little flair, and it’s super reasonably priced! Not only is it affordable, but it also comes in a wide array of colorful patterns.
The 16.5-inch wide bag can fit a 15-inch or smaller laptop and has high rebound bubble material on the bottom to protect laptops from shock if the bag is dropped.
The outer material is waterproof, though the detachable shoulder strap is made of cloth. It has an interior pocket, a slip pocket on the outside, and a back strap that can slide over a suitcase handle for easy carrying.
Find more DACHEE Waterproof Messenger Bag information and reviews here.
Messenger Bags For Men
Messenger bags are a fairly unisex style of carrying your belongs, but there are definitely some options that men, in particular, might be more drawn to.
Some of our favorite messenger bags with aesthetics and functionality more suited for men include:
- Timbuk2 Command Laptop Messenger Bag
- Filson Dryden Briefcase
- NEWHEY Vintage Genuine Leather Men's Messenger Bag
Messenger Bags For Women
During our search for the best waterproof messenger bags, we came across some lovely styles for women of varying size and functionality.
Some of our top picks of messenger bags for women include:
- Uarzt Vintage Messenger Bag for Women
- EaseGave Crossbody Padded Laptop Bag
- DACHEE Waterproof Laptop Messenger Bag
Canvas Messenger Bags
Canvas messenger bags are a unique and sharp style that is no doubt gaining popularity these days. The material has a sort of old school aesthetic that's both classy and rugged looking, and are oftentimes treated to be effectively abrasion and waterproof.
Filson's canvas messenger bags although expensive, are some of the most beautifully crafted and highly functional options around. The brand offers an array of unisex styles for every style of commute or adventure.
Some cheaper, yet nonetheless attractive and well-built canvas messenger bag options include:
- WOWBOX Waxed Waterproof Canvas Laptop Messenger Bag
- Lifewit Men's Vintage Canva Messenger Bag
- Gootium Vintage Frayed Style Satchel
- TOPWOLF Small Crossbody Canvas Messenger Bag
Leather Messenger Bags
Although not necessarily the most waterproof material when it comes to messenger bag construction, leather-made models have a razor-sharp aesthetic and are oftentimes well-treated to repel water.
A few of our favorite leather messenger bags for both men and women include:
- cuero DHK 18-Inch Vintage Leather Messenger Bag
- KomalC Retro Buffalo Hunter Leather Laptop Messenger Bag
- Oak Leathers 15-Inch Messenger-Bag
- Samsonite Columbian Leather Flapover Case
- Rustic Town 13-Inch Vintage Genuine Leather Messenger Bag
Large Messenger Bags
If you're debating whether or not you can realistically switch out your current backpack or briefcase for a messenger bag, capacity is very likely the main concern.
If you like the idea of making the switch to a shoulder, or crossbody bag but have a need for something with a lot of storage, some of our top picks for large messenger bags include:
- Sechunk Vintage Military Canvas Messenger Bag
- Augus Men's Leather Messenger Bag
- Buffalo Jackson Trading Co. Waxed Canvas & Leather Travel Bag
- Solo Focus 17.3 Inch Laptop Briefcase
Waterproof Backpacks:
While messenger bags are often preferred for cycling applications due to their inherent build, you should at least consider the potential of a mindfully-designed waterproof backpack depending on your needs.
Some options wear quite low profile while offering superior storage and organization potential, so be sure to check out our posts on the best waterproof backs, small hiking backpacks, and even snowboarding backpacks for some additional options that may be right up your alley!
Rain Jackets
If you're seeking waterproof storage for your wet-sensitive belongings, be sure to consider your apparel as well! Our list of the best packable rain jackets features a variety of options for keeping dry that will pack down nice and compact once you reach your destination.