You know how important functional travel gear is if your job takes you all over the world. However, it’s not always about practicality. Sometimes, you need to head straight to the office from the airport or to a meeting. Stopping at the hotel for a quick change isn’t always possible. And no matter how much we say that work speaks for itself, looks do matter when it comes to business. Additionally, you want your laptop with you and want to be organized too. A travel briefcase is a perfect way to keep your look polished and your belongings safe at the same time. The best briefcase for business travel is nifty enough to have in-built sleeves for laptops. Moreover, all top-notch business travel briefcases today have lots of pockets for organization. What’s more, they’re multifaceted when it comes to the way they’re carried too.
So, give your travel style game some serious plumping up and check out the 13 best briefcase choices for business travel right here.
How to choose the best briefcase for business travel
Like one looks for specific features while looking for the best backpacks for work, it’s the same when it comes to briefcases for business travel. However, there are a few common things that everyone needs to consider to ensure that they’re getting the best travel briefcase.
Function and size
Obviously, the most important thing to consider while choosing a travel briefcase is its function. To begin with, you need to consider the size of your tablet or laptop. Secondly, you’ll need to think about what else will you be keeping along with them. If you need it for the everyday commute, you might need a smaller, slimmer one. If you need it for overnight use, you need to think about how many days you travel on an average; and then decide the size of the bag. Also, if you’re someone who goes on business trips regularly, think about one with more pockets. Finally, you also need to check the dimensions of the bag if you plan to double it as a carry-on.
Weight
Weight is one of the most important things you need to consider while choosing business travel briefcases. Also, you need to consider both the bag’s own weight and the weight of the stuff you’ll be putting into it. You don’t want your shoulder and back to hurt after a long day of carrying a heavy bag around.
Style
Gone are the days when a business travel briefcase conjured images of clunky boxes. Today, travel briefcases are smart and come in a gamut of styles. First up are the traditional business travel briefcases. Now, they have softer corners, rather than the traditional, sharp ones. Then, there are others that double up as backpacks, duffel bags, and even shoulder bags, thanks to removable straps. One of the most popular designs is the messenger bag with a flap. Moreover, travelers have choices of distinctly masculine or feminine bags, and even unisex ones. Finally, the material of the bag can range from leather to nylon. In the end, the style you choose should depend on not just the aesthetics, but also how long you’re going to be hauling it and how often you’re going to be using it.
Wowbox Vintage Canvas Leather Laptop Briefcase
13
Chic messenger bags is what Wowbox does best. The Wowbox Vintage Laptop Briefcase is one of the best briefcases for business travel. The bag is constructed from rugged canvas and top-notch cowhide and sports a stylish look.
The highlight of the bag is the shockproof laptop compartment. The thick padded bottom keeps your gadgets safe. What’s more, the bag’s interior features four slip pockets for chargers, gadgets, credit cards, and pens. Also, it even has a large compartment for files. Vintage buckles cover the magnetic clasps, keeping stuff safe and the look chic. Moreover, the shoulder strap is adjustable and removable. Thus, the bag can be carried by the top handles too. So, the retro, crossbody look works for both business meetings and everyday use.
Although the size is a bit small, the bag works in both style and function departments. What’s more, the leather-trimmed bag has lots of color options, including green, gray, and coffee.
Dimensions
13 x 10.50 x 4.10 inches (33 x 26.67 x 10.4 cm)
Pros
- Multiple compartments.
- A variety of colors.
- Shockproof bottom.
Cons
- A bit smaller than traditional briefcases.
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Samsonite Classic Two Gusset Toploader Briefcase
12
If you use a larger 15 or 17-inch laptop, then this Samsonite Classic Two Gusset Toploader Briefcase might just be what you need. On the exterior, the urban bag is made of 1680 ballistic durable fabric that lends ruggedness. The design of the padded shoulder strap makes it very comfortable. Similarly, the wrapped bale handles are designed for comfort, especially when you carry it sans its strap. A padded laptop compartment keeps your gadgets like laptops, tablets, and e-readers safe. The best part is that it can hold up to a 17-inch laptop. The inner cotton lining ensures that they don’t rub against the interiors either. What’s more, there are plenty of inner pockets for organizing everything from files to wallets. Rounding up the list of features is an easy-stash pocket on the outside, which is indispensable for grabbing stuff like keys and phones.
Even though it comes in just one color, the travel briefcase redefines style with an all-black color. Furthermore, the metal accouterments enhance the look by adding sheen.
Dimensions
12.50 x 3.50 x 17.25 inches (31.75 x 8.9 x 43.8 cm)
Pros
- Padded inner compartment.
- Cotton lining.
- Ideal for larger laptops or more items.
- Durable and rugged exterior.
Cons
- Zippers aren’t exactly designed for rough use.
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CoolBELL Convertible Travel Briefcase
11
If you’re looking for business travel briefcases that are stylish and yet add a composed touch to your outfit, then this bag is for you. The CoolBELL Convertible Travel Briefcase gives you the ultimate in versatility and can be used as a backpack, a shoulder bag, and a messenger bag.
The first thing you’ll notice about this bag is all the space. The briefcase can hold a laptop of up to 17.3 inches. Apart from that, it can easily hold three days worth of clothes too. An inner accessory compartment is great for keys or even make-up stuff. So, if you’re heading for a weekend work trip, then look no further than this convertible briefcase. In addition, four exterior pockets are great for organization and quick-access stuff. Finally, the comfortable, adjustable, and removable strap makes it easy for you to carry the bag around easily.
If that wasn’t enough, the bag is water-resistant and made from genuine leather. Moreover, it has 10 different color options!
Dimensions
18.8 x 5.1 x 13.7 inches (47.75 x 12.9 x 34.8 cm)
Pros
- 10 different options for colors – black, blue, canvas black, dark grey, grey, brown, canvas dark grey, canvas green, waxed cloth black, and new canvas dark grey.
- Spacious.
- Leather construction and water-resistant.
- Many carrying styles.
Cons
- The zippers look a little cheap.
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Ytonet 17-Inch Laptop Bag
10
With an impressive 4.6-star rating and over 2,600 reviews, the 17-inch laptop bag from Ytonet is a sure winner. The best feature of this durable business travel briefcase is that it can expand a whole 2 inches (5 cm) more than its size! So, it can fit everything that you might need for your travel, and then some.
Made from a durable, water-resistant material, this bag is perfect to be carried in all kinds of weather. One of its best features is the backstrap, which allows you to attach it to your airport carry-on instead of lugging it around separately. What’s more, the strap can be used to carry this bag as a messenger bag, or a tote bag even. Aside from the shockproof space for a 17-inch laptop, this travel briefcase boasts more than 10 compartments. So, you can organize everything from makeup to wallet to clothes to files in this bag separately without having to rummage through it.
Moreover, two exterior zippered compartments are great for quick-access stuff that needs to be safe all the same. Chic, elegant, and affordable, this business travel briefcase pleases on all counts.
Dimensions
17.3 x 12.6 x 7 inches (43.9 x 32 x 17.8 cm)
Pros
- Multiple pockets for organization.
- Shockproof laptop pocket.
- Versatile strap.
- It also has an 18.4-inch version.
Cons
- Zippered pockets lack two zippers for TSA locking.
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Amazon Basics Rolling Laptop Case
9
There’s so much to like about the Rolling Laptop Case from AmazonBasics. For one, it takes the weight of the briefcase off your shoulders. Secondly, it boasts an uncomplicated design. Last, but not least, it’s both lightweight and great value-for-money.
A retractable, telescoping handle provides all the versatility in this bag. When you’re rolling the bag, the push-button lock allows for secure movement. It can be tucked away and the two fabric top handles allow the bag to be used as a briefcase. On the inside, the design is clean and simple. The frontal organizational pocket offers easy access to items like phones, keys, etc. On the inside, it has three main compartments. First is a padded interior pocket for securely holding a laptop. A second compartment is perfect for miscellaneous items from clothes to shoes. Finally, a third compartment is perfect for small items like business cards, notepads, and pens.
The best part about the briefcase is that it can fit under airplane seats, and can be used as a carry-on. What’s more, there’s even a slot for inserting a nametag at the back of the bag. Overall, it might not have the bells and whistles of other bags, but it works well for the price.
Dimensions
16.50 x 14.50 x 7.50 inches (41.9 x 36.8 x 19 cm)
Pros
- Lightweight.
- Value-for-money.
- Lots of pockets for organization.
- Easy to carry.
Cons
- No security features or lockable zippers.
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ECOSUSI Ladies PU Leather Laptop Bag
8
ECOSUSI is perhaps most known for its range of vegan leather handbags for women. In the Ladies PU Leather Laptop Bag, Ecosusi has created an excellent business travel briefcase for women.
The stylish laptop bag is perfect for ladies who carry smaller laptops up to 14 inches. One of the chicest highlights about the bag is the elegant bow which lends the bag a feminine flair while being professional at the same time. What the bag doesn’t tell you outwardly is that it’s supremely durable. You can swing in and out of your car, throw it around in your backseat or trunk, carry it everywhere, wear it all the time – and it’ll still be as reliable as the day you got it.
Apart from a 14-inch laptop compartment, you’ll find four other compartments that can carry everything you need. The nifty, adjustable strap and top handles allow it to be carried like a briefcase, crossbody bag, messenger bag, and even a purse. Whether it’s your daily commute or an overnight trip, this lightweight laptop bag won’t weigh you down. At the same time, it’s primed to carry all your stuff.
Dimensions
14.8 x 10.6 x 4 inches (37.6 x 26.9 x 10.1 cm)
Pros
- It comes in five colors – black, blue, coffee, red, and brown.
- Eco-friendly.
- Well-constructed.
- It also has a 15.6-inch version.
Cons
- The strap is less durable than the bag.
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Samsonite Leather Expandable Briefcase
7
When it comes to leather briefcases, you cannot go wrong with Samsonite. It’s one of the best luggage brands in the world. And this Samsonite Leather Expandable Briefcase is one of the best travel briefcases in business.
The bag is made of genuine leather and sports a spacious and professional design and appearance. A sturdy outer frame maintains the shape of the briefcase, no matter what or how much stuff is placed inside. Moreover, the zipper beneath the bag allows the storage area to expand so that more items can be fit into the briefcase. Also, it does sans jeopardizing the integrity of the seams. The briefcase also ensures carrying comfort and versatility in the form of both a shoulder strap and carrying handles. In addition, the strap is made of durable nylon and has a leather shoulder pad so as to not put a strain on your shoulder.
On the inside, the bag features many compartments for organizational comfort. Your 15-inch laptop can easily and snugly sit within the padded laptop sleeve. A bevy of concealed zipper compartments allows storing lots of items like stationery, files, keys, wallet, makeup, and more. On the outside, the bag maintains a sleek look that makes it great to be carried on business meetings and trips.
Dimensions
16.75 x 7.25 x 12.25 inches (42.5 x 18.4 x 31 cm)
Pros
- Sturdy outer design.
- Expandable storage.
- The shoulder strap is padded.
- Lots of concealed inner compartments.
- Neat outer appearance.
Cons
- PU leather might not work in humid environments.
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CoolBELL Convertible Backpack Shoulder Messenger Bag (CU)
6
The CoolBELL Convertible Bag is one of the coolest business travel briefcases out there. The bag’s biggest draw is its dimensions, which make it one of the largest briefcases out there. Measuring 18.8 x 5.1 x 13.7 inches, the bag is large enough to fit in a 17-inch laptop! Also, it comes it five very cool colors; canvas khaki, canvas dark grey, canvas black, new grey, and new black.
Coming to its practical characteristics, the multi-faceted bag can be carried in three different styles. It can be attached to your airport carry-on like a business briefcase. In addition, it can be carried like a messenger bag, thanks to the shoulder straps. Finally, the extra straps allow it to be carried like a backpack too! Hidden external pockets with zipper closures and two frontal pockets allow you to quick-access stuff no matter how you wear the bag. Aside from a laptop, the large main compartment can store clothes for at least two-three days, as well as other necessary stuff. Besides an ergonomic design, the classic handles and padded shoulder straps make it easy to carry without bringing strain to your shoulder or your back. Finally, the winning unisex design suits both women and men perfectly.
Dimensions
18.8 x 5.1 x 13.7 inches (47.7 x 12.9 x 34.8 cm)
Pros
- It comes in five different colors.
- Versatile; can be carried in three ways.
- Sturdy, ergonomic construction.
- Shockproof laptop sleeve.
Cons
- Some users have reported issues with the D-clips.
Alpine Swiss Expandable Leather Attache Briefcase
5
if you’re a fan of the classic rectangular, hard-sided business travel briefcases, then the Alpine Swiss Leather Attache is for you. Traditional as the briefcase might be, it includes modern touches that make it an excellent choice even today.
The sturdy hardcover attache-briefcase has a professional and clean exterior design that offers excellent protection for anything you store inside. The case is made from genuine leather that will form a gorgeous patina over time, lending it a further vintage look. What’s more, it measures a huge 19 x 14 x 4 inches but can be expanded an additional inch for extra storage. This is what separates it from a traditional hardcover briefcase. A large storage compartment features stretchable file sections and another compartment for other odds and ends.
The area where the briefcase also excels is security, with closure in the form of dual combination locks. What’s more, combinations on both sides need to be precisely aligned for you to be able to open the lid. If that wasn’t enough, each side can have different combinations for added security.
Dimensions
19 x 14 x 4 inches (48.2 x 35.5 x 10.1 cm)
Pros
- Classic, vintage design.
- Made from genuine leather.
Cons
- Durability might be an issue.
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SOLO Sterling Overnighter (CU)
4
The SOLO Sterling Overnighter might be the lightest business travel briefcase on wheels ever made. The briefcase is utterly stylish with a minimalist grey-on-black design lends it a gorgeous yet professional look.
The sleek telescoping handle makes it easy to roll the bag around, no matter its capacity. When not in use, it folds away into a zippered compartment, leaving the exterior looking tidy. A frontal exterior non-zippered stash pocket is excellent for storing quick-access items like tissue, water, etc. A small zippered pocket is great for keys, phones, and more. When you unzip the main compartment, there’s a large, padded pocket with separators for up to a 16-inch laptop and files. Beneath that is the largest storage area in the bag, which can hold everything from clothes to small travel purses to shoes. Everything is kept in place by two locking straps, which also keep the look tidy. All-in-all, this rolling briefcase is perfect for a three-day work trip.
When the rolling handle isn’t in use, two padded top handles make it comfortable to carry by hand. What’s more, its size is such that it can fit beneath an airline seat as well.
Dimensions
16 x 14 x 6 inches (40.6 x 35.5 x 15.2 cm)
Pros
- Fantastic neat look.
- Padded top handles and sleek rolling telescoping handle.
- Excellent organization.
Cons
- Could tip on to the side if filled to the brim.
Samsonite Colombian Leather Messenger Bag (CU)
3
There’s a reason this list has so many Samsonite products, and that is style and durability. And one versatile product that’s also one of the best leather messenger bags in business is the Samsonite Colombian Leather Messenger Bag. The business-casual product is one of the best messenger-bag style briefcase options for business travel.
The Samsonite Colombian is made from genuine leather, and as a result, develops a gorgeous patina over a period of time. A padded shoulder strap, albeit constructed from nylon, makes it very easy for the bag to be worn crossbody. Moreover, it’s also adjustable and removable, and the bag can be carried by the top handles too. Also, since the top handles are leather-made, they lend a rich charm when carried by hand.
Likewise, the bag does great on the organizational front too. On the inside, there’s a main zippered compartment with a dedicated laptop sleeve that can fit a 15-inch laptop. Moreover, there are also two external slip and zippered pockets for keeping quick-access items like tissues, makeup, keys, phone, and even stationery. The cherry on top is that the bag is secure thanks to the flap that goes over the button closure.
Dimensions
16.5 x 12 x 5.5 inches (41.9 x 30.5 x 14 cm)
Pros
- Comes in three colors – espresso, brown, and black.
- Versatile and durable.
- Great organization.
- Padded shoulder straps.
Cons
- It’s not waterproof.
Augus Business Travel Briefcase
2
There’s nothing like leather, handcrafted briefcase to impress during business meetings or trips. And the Augus Business Travel Briefcase is the best in business – no pun intended. It’s made from genuine high-quality leather and is professional and durable to haul around on all your business trips.
What’s excellent about the bag’s build is that the leather it’s made from is waterproof. So, not only will it keep your things safe and secure, but it can also be used in every weather. Plus, you’ll love the lovely patina that genuine leather develops over a period of time. A handy back strap allows attaching the briefcase to the handle of your carryon for carrying your luggage easily while traveling. On the inside, three zippered compartments can store everything from a laptop to documents, to even change of clothes for an overnight trip. Three exterior pockets are perfect for quick-access items. The strap with shoulder pads makes it easy for you to wear the bag crossbody. Finally, the sleek carrying handles lend it a clean look for it to be carried by hand. You’re even spoilt for choice when it comes to choosing colors – coffee, black, absolute coffee, and absolute black.
Dimensions
17.5 X 5.5 X 12 inches (44.4 x 14 x 30.5 cm)
Pros
- Padded, detachable shoulder strap.
- Constructed from genuine 100% waterproof leather.
- Lots of space.
Cons
- If stuffed to the brim, zipper durability is a bit less.
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Taygeer Laptop Bag-Briefcase
1
Even if your budget for a bag is low, it doesn’t mean that you need to sacrifice either functionality. And the Taygeer Laptop Bag-cum-Briefcase is a testament to that. It ticks all boxes for being one of the best briefcases for business travel.
The exquisite laptop bag-briefcase is constructed of water-resistant nylon, making it perfect to be swung around in all kinds of weather. If the size wasn’t already perfect, the bag has expandable sides which add additional inches, making for more storage space. Coming to the organization, the bag has a front pocket for storing items that can be grabbed quickly, like cellphones, chargers, headphones, and stationery. On the inside, a roomy main pocket can store a 15.6-inch laptop. Also, it has internal pocket organizers for storing files, calculators, stationery, and more.
A nifty addition is a passthrough strap that is ideal for securely fastening the bag to most carry-ons. Finally, a removable shoulder strap and soft leather handles make it versatile to be carried as a crossbody as well as in the hand.
Dimensions
15.7 x 3.15 x 11.8 inches (39.9 x 8 x 30 cm)
Pros
- The bag has both shoulder straps and carrying handles.
- Durable.
- Versatile.
- Multiple compartments for organization.
- It even has a 17-inch version.
Cons
- None!
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